The beauty of science and the science of beauty
For a long time, science subjects have been put at odds with the arts and humanities. When one thinks of an English teacher, one might imagine a man with glasses wearing a turtleneck. On the other hand, when thinking of a science teacher, the image of a man in a lab coat might spring to mind.
Here at Acorn House students are taught from an early age to see the links between subjects.
What is extraordinary about this school is that teachers endeavour to show students how there is a pattern in everything they learn, and that the parts always make a whole.
In science students have been building strong foundations in chemistry, biology and physics, with one guiding principle; the belief that science is also an art form.
Students are encouraged to look at the beauty of science with the same spirit of Romanticism that they might study in English class or art history.
It was brought to my attention that high school teachers who get to know our old students compliment our alumni for their love of learning. I believe that encouraging the links between subjects is one of the secrets to achieving this effect.
Recently our year 9 students worked on documentaries where they had to have great showmanship and erudition.
The students were given examples of people like David Attenborough and Brian Cox as models they should look up to.
All of the students produced marvellous documentaries which were professionally made, and showed off an impressive knowledge of the topics studied in class.
I am extremely proud of what the students managed to make, as such work typifies the creative, disciplined and knowledgeable nature of our school.
Take a look for yourself!
