Space School UK

Space School is a residential Summer School held at the University of Leicester. There are two different courses aimed primarily at students who are preparing for GCSEs and A-levels and who have a strong interest in astronomy, space science and technology. The disciplines covered range from physics and astronomy to engineering and astronautics, planetary science and geology to environmental studies and the humanities. The course includes both lectures and practical activities and opportunities are provided for students to meet space scientists and academics, as well as people working in the space industry.

Students have the opportunity to win various competitions held during the course. Prizes are awarded for practical rocketry and other participation events. They also have the chance to fly a simulated space mission at the Challenger Learning Centre attached to the National Space Centre.

The Ogden Trust has supported Space School since 2006 and also offers grants to those who may not be able to attend for financial reasons.

Contact details: spaceschool@star.le.ac.uk, Professor Ken Pounds, Director of Space School UK, kap@leicester.ac.uk, Dr. Tracey Parker, Physics / Astronomy Outreach Officer, University of Leicester, tp57@leicester.ac.uk