News Lower Sixth Physics Trip to the Diamond Light Source Research Laboratory 05.11.2025

On Wednesday 22 October, ten Lower Sixth physicists travelled to the cutting-edge Diamond Light Source research laboratory in Oxfordshire. Our students learnt that Diamond Light Source is the UK’s national synchrotron serving scientists and researchers from around the world. It is a not-for-profit joint venture funded by UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) and Wellcome and provides academic and industry researchers access to facilities that enable world-changing science. The machine generates extremely bright light that is directed into laboratories known as beamlines which scientists use to find solutions to humanity’s most critical challenges, from health, food security and biotechnology to energy, climate change and advanced materials.

During their visit, students toured several of the working labs, saw the sophisticated instruments in action, and spoke directly with researchers about their work. The visit offered a rare insight into the intersection of physics, engineering and real-world innovation — inspiring our young physicists to see where their own studies might lead.

(Image credit: Sealand Aerial Photography Limited)