Cross-country CHaOS roadshow delivers lasting legacy
By Margaret Johncock
The spirit of scientific wonder was in the air this summer as nearly 100 dedicated student volunteers from the University of Cambridge took to the road with the Cambridge Hands-On Science (CHaOS) Summer Roadshow.
Their mission? To bring the fascinating world of science to life for more than 7,000 children around the country, igniting a passion for chemistry and inspiring the next generation of scientists.
The CHaOS Summer Roadshow is an annual event that has been running since 2002. Over six weeks, our enthusiastic student volunteers camped together at night, and by day, they visited schools, museums, and various community events from Norfolk to Devon - a route that hasn't been taken in more than seven years!
They created an interactive and engaging environment where young minds could explore the wonders of chemistry in a hands-on and exciting way. These volunteers were the heart and soul of our project, sharing not only knowledge but also unforgettable experiences. Armed with a dazzling array of experiments from exploding film canisters to goo that can magically climb up high, they captivated the imagination of children and adults alike.
One unforgettable moment from this summer was when a young boy, initially uninterested in the event, stood among the crowd during the mini-explosions demonstration. As the film canister erupted into a burst of excitement, his eyes lit up with wonder. He couldn't contain his enthusiasm and turned to his parents, exclaiming: "I want to try being a scientist too! Can we do this at home?"
As we reflect on the summer of 2023, we see a lasting legacy. In the eyes of the children we reached, we see future scientists, engineers, and innovators. For our volunteers, this experience was transformative, helping them develop a love for science communication and fostering skills that will benefit them in their future careers.
None of this would have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, including the Royal Society of Chemistry. Their belief in our vision and commitment to science education allowed us to provide the necessary equipment and cover logistical expenses, ensuring the success of this year's Roadshow. We extend our heartfelt thanks to these sponsors who made it all possible.
We also want to express our gratitude to the venues that hosted us this year. Their collaboration was instrumental in making this project a reality, and we look forward to future partnerships that will continue to spark scientific curiosity in the hearts of young learners.
- For more information about CHaOS or if you are interested in hosting us next year, please visit our website.
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