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Rocket launches new schools project at University of Sussex


* 16 July 2002 *

Rocket launches new schools project at University of Sussex

A new partnership between local schools and the University of Sussex will start with a bang this week. A rocket launch on Wednesday 17 July will mark the first visit to the University's Falmer campus by gifted and talented pupils from Hove Park School and Patcham School.

Thirty Year 10 students from the two schools will get the chance to study with top scientific researchers over the next year. Each pupil will visit the University about once a month for lab sessions, practicals and lectures in physics, chemistry and biology. Dr Jonathan Hare, from BBC2's 'Rough Science' programme, will lead some of the project sessions.

The highlight of their first visit will be a demonstration by physicist Dr Ben Varcoe, who will launch a rocket made out of Evian bottles and boiling liquid nitrogen.

David Daniels, project co-ordinator and head of physics at Hove Park School, said the new project would give the school pupils a taste of student life and the chance to use top-class laboratory facilities. If the scheme goes well, we hope to secure funding that will enable us to involve other secondary schools in the Brighton and Hove area," he added.

Dr Mark Hindmarsh, physics and astronomy admissions tutor at the University, said: "We hope the activities will help to inspire the next generation of scientists."




* Notes for editors *

You are invited to send a reporter and/or photographer to the rocket launch, which will take place on Wednesday 17 July at 11am.

For further information, contact Dr Mark Hindmarsh on 01273 678934, email m.b.hindmarsh@sussex.ac.uk or Mr David Daniels on 01273 294964, email hovedavidg@aol.com.

Press Office contacts: Alison Field or Peter Simmons, University of Sussex,
Tel. 01273 678888, Fax 01273 877456, email A.Field@sussex.ac.uk or P.J.Simmons@sussex.ac.uk.




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