Plan a trip to discover the secrets of the Universe

16 October 2014

If you're a science teacher looking to take studies out of the classroom, then visiting the world-renowned CERN scientific research centre in Geneva, where physicists are seeking answers to some of the world’s most powerful questions, really is a once in a ‘universe’ trip.

A visit to CERN would really appeal to any aspiring scientist, offering a glimpse into how leading minds conduct experimental research into the fundamentals of life as we know it in the world’s largest physics laboratory. Step inside the unique planet-shaped ‘Globe of Science and Innovation’ to learn about the concepts of particle physics, then head to the Microcosm museum to uncover how the Hadron Collider works and view scale models of CERN equipment.

The voyage of discovery doesn’t end there either. Did you know CERN was even the birthplace of the world wide web, invented by Sir Tim Berners-Lee in 1989 to provide scientists across the world with a quicker way to share information? You can learn all about its origins in a dedicated exhibition.

WST can help your school plan an educational trip including guided tours of up to 48 pupils around the research facility, to help both teachers and students learn more about CERN, particle physics and your unique place in the universe. Each tour lasts up to three hours, and consists of an introduction to the history of CERN followed by a short film and visits to experimental areas.  There is then time to explore the 2 permanent exhibitions where an hour each is recommended.

If you’re lucky enough to be there on the right day, you may even be treated to a tour by none other than Professor Bill Murray of the Atlas project, the team that found evidence of the Higgs Boson particle!

*For safety reasons unfortunately children under 13 years old are not admitted directly within the CERN laboratory.