Sixth Form Team Reach Imperial College Final
Potential Difference, a Sixth Form physics team from The Leys, secured their place in the final of Imperial College London’s prestigious Science & Innovation Competition.
The team (from left to right) Arad R, Natalia S, Abby L and Artem S, progressed to the national final, from a field of more than 250 teams nationwide. The competition, which aims to inspire young people to engage with science, whilst encouraging teamwork, curiosity and innovation, challenged participants to develop an original scientific solution addressing one of the United Nations’ Global Goals for Sustainable Development.
As part of their entry, teams were required to produce a five‑minute film outlining the goal they selected, their innovative solution, including the science behind their idea and illustrate how their idea addressed the goal. In entering the competition, the group designed a self‑charging shoe capable of generating and storing electrical energy anywhere in the world. They then, using facilities in both the Physics and DT departments, went on to build a working prototype.
Mr Harmsworth, Head of Physics, commented: “Their consistent energy for the project and can‑do attitude every step of the way really did make this their own. They used the school facilities, but all the thinking and work was theirs, showing huge commitment, effort and ownership throughout.”
On Earth Day, they took part in a demanding and nerve‑wracking two‑and‑a‑half‑hour presentation, showcasing their work in the final round to a panel of expert judges. The judging panel, which included Britain’s first astronaut, Helen Sharman, put teams through rigorous questioning. Despite the pressure, pupils delivered a confident and credible presentation, impressing the judges with both their technical understanding and practical application.
The team were awarded runners‑up, with emphasis on the exceptionally high standard of their work and pupils left in no doubt that the judges were incredibly impressed. A remarkable achievement, reflecting both individual curiosity and the teams collaborative spirit.
Their success at Imperial College London is a fitting testament to their ambition and sets them on a great path for future pursuits.