AN OUT of this world space themed celebration saw Jay Tate from the Spaceguard Centre in Knighton on hand to discuss his fascinating field of research with sixth form physics students at Bedstone College.

It accompanied the official opening of two completely refurbished science laboratories now fitted with top of the range facilities for the students.

The new science labs will enable Bedstone students to have access to the best facilities in order to see science in action and conduct their own research.

A cosmic celebration was held to open the facilities with governors, guests, staff and students enjoying space themed cakes provided by the Bedstone College catering department.

The refurbishment forms part of a series of renovation following last year’s upgrading of the College’s IT room facilities and investment in a new all weather pitch.

The next phase will involve the biology laboratories.

The high specification laboratory facilities, provided through new investment, will enable Bedstone to continue its tradition of excellent science education as Bedstone College has a proud history of physics education. Lord Rees, Astronomer Royal, was the first student to attend Bedstone College and its current headmaster, Mr Gajadharsingh also studied physics.

All students have state of the art work benches so there are no limits to the potential for different experiments. The labs also have interactive whiteboards, giving access to all the latest scientific research during lesson time. In such a fast moving field of study, up to date research and the ability to learn through conducting experiments is vital.

Mark Rozée, head of Chemistry at Bedstone College said: “It is imperative for schools to have the latest and highest quality science labs. Science is different from any other subject, in order to understand its concepts, one has to look beyond the books and conventional classroom teaching.”

Bedstone College already has a sixth form student going on to study physics at University College, University of Oxford this October. It is hoped that many more students will be inspired by the science education they receive at the school.

Bedstone College is a British boarding and day school for boys and girls from four to 18. Set in the heart of south Shropshire, the school’s rural surrounds and magnificent calendar house provide an enviable, safe setting for under 200 pupils.