East Surrey MP, Peter Ainsworth was impressed by a group of year 8 Warlingham School Science students during his visit to the school last week. The group, led by Head of Science Mr Paul Seward, presented their findings to the MP following independent research into ways of improving the environment and reducing their carbon footprint.
Teams researched a variety of different areas, such as conventional light bulbs versus the energy saving version, reducing loss of heat through insulation, water saving tips and creating energy from a wind turbine. Peter Ainsworth was given the opportunity to test a model of a wind turbine using a hair dryer as ‘wind-power’, and the group explained to him their project to have one installed at the school. Student, Russell Taylor said to the MP, “A wind turbine would get younger people interested in science, politics and the environment. Could you support us with getting our application for a wind turbine?” Peter Ainsworth replied, “Yes, I think it is a brilliant idea.”
Following their presentations, Mr Seward, commended the students’ professionalism and independence. He said, “I was really impressed by their work on a topic that clearly means a lot to them. Very little of the work was led by me, most of it was based on their own research.” He endorsed their efforts with an engaging story explaining to the group how their work has made a difference to him. He explained how during a recent trip to the supermarket he felt compelled to reconsider the brand of butter he traditionally bought which is manufactured in New Zealand in favour of one produced locally in the UK. Mr Seward complemented this story by telling the students how simple changes such as this will make a huge difference now and to future generations.
The students were then given the opportunity to ask Mr Ainsworth questions which he was more than happy to answer. He joked, “I didn’t realise I was going to be tested! You know far more on the detailed science work than I do. You really have done a lot of work on this.”
The students were thrilled with the meeting. Marie Payne said, “It would be really good if Mr Ainsworth helps us to get a wind turbine. His answers to our questions were really interesting.” Nathan Cannam commented, “It was really good that he made time to come and listen to our presentations. It shows that MPs do care.”
|
