School pupils get special sneak peak at Imperial Festival 2018

Young scientists got to grips with experiments at Schools Day

Bright sparks from across London got a special preview of what's to come at Imperial Festival at an exclusive event.

The Schools Day was held in a specially-erected marquee in the heart of Imperial’s South Kensington Campus. Pupils from eight schools across London came, including many from White City where Imperial is currently developing a new campus.

The annual event is an opportunity for young people to engage with some of Imperial’s newest and most exciting research. It is held one day before Imperial Festival – the College’s annual flagship free public event, celebrating the best of science, engineering and creativity. 

Hands on science

Pupils from across the region were invited to get hands on with a selection of science, engineering, technology and health-related activities which will be on show at this weekend’s Festival, including:

• Robotic surgery: A trio of abdominal surgery simulating stations were set up for visitors to try out some of Imperial’s cutting edge keyhole surgery tech.

• Imperial Racing Green: Engineering students showcased the hydrogen-powered endurance racer they are currently developing.

• Enlightening molecules: Hidden fluorescent molecules in household products and foods were unleashed in this colourful exhibit.

• Engineering to enable: Pupils got to grips with accessible innovations from engineering undergrads, including a smart baby buggy which senses its environment that has been designed for people visual impairments.

Weekend of discovery

Imperial Festival returns for its seventh year on 28-29 April at the College’s South Kensington Campus. The public have the chance to go behind-the-scenes and explore the latest research and innovations from Imperial College London through interactive demonstrations, workshops and live experiments.

Creativity and culture will also be at the forefront with vibrant live musical and dance performances, a theatrical performance and exhibition exploring the boundaries between medicine and the arts, plus delicious treats from some of London’s best street food vendors.

Imperial Festival runs 12-6pm on Saturday 28, 12-5pm on Sunday 29 April. The free public festival will be held on Imperial’s South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London, SW7 2AZ. To attend please register in advance.