HANGING chimes, speaking tubes and mirrors have been put to good use in the interests of science.
The play equipment forms part of a new interactive outdoor science base at Chilton Primary School.
The £25,000 centre, at the village school is aimed at getting children excited about science. Its centrepiece is a giant version of Newton’s cradle – in which hanging balls collide to demonstrate physical forces.
There is also a morse code communicator, and a ball slope demonstrating friction.
Headteacher Christine Dunsdon said: “The idea is to allow the children to see how exciting science is, and they will have great fun using the different pieces of equipment. We want to encourage their investigative skills."”
She said the school’s location, near the Diamond Light Source, Harwell campus, and the Rutherford Laboratory, made science a particular focus for youngsters.
The school PTA raised £10,000 to pay for the Newton’s cradle. The science base is on the site of a defunct outdoor 1950s swimming pool.
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