About us

Our aims

We describe tried and tested physics experiments, in sufficient detail that they will work in any school laboratory. We provide notes about teaching and learning, and a few web-links. The site is particularly useful for teachers and technicians who wish to develop their practical craft in physics.

Work on the site started in 2004 and a complete set of Topics was in place by 2008. Experiments and related guidance continue to be added to the site.

 

Who we are

This is a joint project of the Nuffield Foundation and the Institute of Physics.
 
Nuffield Science and Mathematics Education explores new approaches to teaching and learning by developing, managing and supporting curriculum projects. Increasingly its projects are run in partnership with others.
 
The Institute of Physics is a leading international professional body and learned society, established to promote the advancement and dissemination of physics. Education is a key priority in its work.
 
Brenda Jennison, formerly at the Education Department, University of Cambridge, had the vision that led to this project and the determination that made it happen. R. J. J. Orton, formerly at the CLEAPSS School Science Service, provided safety advice for the first three years of the project.
 
Safety advice is now provided by Ralph Whitcher, B Ed (Hons)., C. Ed., DipSM, RPA 2000. Ralph is Health and Safety Manager of a County Council and Chairman of the ASE Safeguards in Science Committee. Formerly he was an advisory teacher for science.
 
The editing team is currently coordinated by David Sang and Steve Steward. The previous coordinator was Peter Campbell. Over the years, major contributors to the site have included David Brodie, Peter Campbell, James de Winter, Tim Hickson, Brenda Jennison, Laurie Mansfield, David Sang and Charles Tracy.

• If you have any comments or queries, please send them to Steve Steward at the Nuffield Curriculum Centre.
• In early summer 2007, we conducted a user survey. View a copy of the survey results.