Planet Earth Event Sfl & IOP

On Wednesday 11th February 2026, groups of pupils from six Islington primary schools undertook a physics challenge and made presentations at the joint Science for Life (SfL) and Institute of Physics (IOP) Planet Earth event. Public engagement officers, Toby Shannon-Smith and Dr Affelia Wibisono, challenged pupils to work in mixed teams to construct earthquake-proof buildings after each team decided on the most appropriate materials and budgeted for them. The buidlings were then tested with a massage gun! Pupils were excited to make their presentations in the conference room at the IOP. Following the presentations, Dr Affelia Wibisono thrilled staff and pupils with a presentation about auroras on different planets. Pupils took home goody bags at the end of the event. 

"It was so fab to see a child refugee's confidence and English speaking skills come so far that they could access the event: working with others from not only their own school but other schools too and standing on stage and presenting."  Ashmount P.S.

"My students who have a passion for science really felt special being chosen."  Gillespie P.S.

"It was lovely to see the children so engaged. The children were all inspired by the presentation."

Vittoria P.S.