SCHOOLCHILDREN worked with top-level researchers to examine a range of scientific projects.

Pupils from the Cherwell, St Edward’s and Magdalen College schools in Oxford were asked to discuss which scientific schemes deserved to be researched at the Diamond Light Source at Harwell.

On Wednesday, the 68 A-Level and Year 11 pupils were split into small groups for the Café des Sciences event at the North Wall Arts Centre, South Parade.

The pupils were given real research projects to analyse with the assistance of scientists based at the pioneering research centre.

They worked against a backdrop of a new exhibition of artwork inspired by the Diamond Light Source.

Diamond beamline scientist Dr Thomas Connolley said: “All the projects that they were evaluating are real and it is important for us to get feedback such as this.

“We got a debate going and, although obviously they didn’t have the scientific knowledge that a panel would have, they were asking the right questions.”

Projects the pupils were asked to examine ranged from metal erosion on the Mary Rose, to GM crops and analysing how Turner paintings fade.

Esther Pang, who is studying physics, chemistry and biology at the Cherwell School, said “It was very helpful.

“We looked at science from another point of view and discussed the pros and cons of real science projects.

“It has helped me to understand the applications and ethics of science in the real world.”

Fellow pupil Iman Awadh said he was surprised how many applications for research projects the Diamond Light Source received and that many had to be rejected.

He said: “I have touched on Diamond Light Source before in chemistry and this has definitely helped my understanding.”

The café format is aimed at giving young scientists the chance to mingle more closely with experts in their field.

The hope is that by being more engaged with the subject, they will take more away from it.

John O’Hara, who is studying geography, economics, biology and chemistry at St Edward’s School, said: “It was very good. There wasn’t too much sitting down and listening. I thought I wouldn’t understand much of it but that was not the case.”

The Café des Sciences events are the brainchild of Dr Kendall Williams, head of science at St Edward’s, in association with the Oxford International Biomedical Centre in Culham.

Dr Williams said: “It was very successful.

“By having a café atmosphere and a chance to talk to scientists face to face about real issues, it gives them a sense they are more involved in the activities.”

The next event, on Thursday, February 11, will focus on the brain, with famous biologist Dr George McGavin leading proceedings.

fbardsley@oxfordmail.co.uk