Our range of free events and programmes taking place throughout the year are designed to give you a taste of the trailblazing research happening at the Department of Physics – and inspire the next generation to follow in the footsteps of our pioneering physicists.
These one-day programmes are thoroughly enjoyed by students and teachers alike, with schools from all over the country making the trip to Cambridge to take part.
You’ll start with a morning tour of a Cambridge college, where you’ll pick up valuable information about studying at Cambridge and how to apply.
Then it’s onto the Cavendish Laboratory, where you’ll take part in a practical physics session and see presentations on the physics curriculum and our exciting research topics.
[Visit Outreach] for more information on dates and how to attend.
This lecture series is open to all, but aimed at those in years 12 and 13.
It exists to enthuse, stimulate and challenge students and their teachers across the whole broad spectrum of physics-related topics – dig into the structure of DNA…listen up to room acoustics…hunt the Higgs!
Taking place live at the Cavendish Laboratory, the events typically follow this format:
5pm: Interactive Isaac Physics problem-solving session
6 to 7pm: Lecture
There is no need to book – just turn up on the day.
Get directions | Sign up for updates | Feedback form | Watch recordings of previous lectures
In 2025, the Cavendish will host the 40th anniversary edition of Physics at Work, from Tuesday 16 to Thursday 18 September.
This annual event for 14 to 16-year-olds is an integral part of the Cavendish Laboratory’s outreach and engagement activities, and is funded by the Department of Physics, the Institute of Physics, and generous donations.
It is designed to inform and spread the excitement of modern physics research to students who will soon be making career and examination choices, and is a vital component in encouraging the next generation of scientists.
[Visit Outreach website] for latest information on dates, schedule and how to attend.
Due to the nature of the research we do at the Cavendish, unfortunately it is not possible for us to offer work experience programmes and placements. Instead, we offer a range of structured and highly enjoyable and informative events throughout the year.
See the latest eventsWe run a series of free events in Cambridge throughout the year. Financial support is available to help schools cover the costs of travel and teacher attendance.
Travel
Cover
How to claim
Schools will be asked to raise one invoice for the total cost of travel and cover to the Cavendish Laboratory.
Receipts for travel must be sent with the school invoice as proof of cost unless minibus mileage is being claimed. We cannot pay coach companies directly.
Accommodation and food
Free accommodation, dinner and/or lunch can be provided by Churchill College for state schools travelling more than 120 miles to attend a Cavendish event.
Accommodation and meals are subject to availability and only available for specific dates and events due to University term.
Please contact Dr Nicki Humphrey-Baker if you have any questions.
The Whipple Museum
This museum of the history of science is in Cambridge city centre and includes a number of special collections transferred from other colleges and departments in the University of Cambridge, including the Cavendish.
See the very optical instruments, electrical instruments, X-ray tubes, vacuum tubes and thermometers which were used during our period of groundbreaking research in the late 19th and early 20th century.
See the Whipple Museum special collections
Cambridge Festival: Taking place each March, this festival offers a series of lectures and family events that bring physics to life.
Visit the website | Sign up for updates
Open Cambridge: The sister event to Cambridge Festival and part of National Heritage Open Days, this 10-day event offers special access to places that are normally closed to the public. Look out for venues with scientific significance!
Dr. Nicki Huphrey-Baker, Educational Outreach Officer
Email: outreach@phy.cam.ac.uk
Jacob B. Butler, Assistant Educational Outreach Officer
Email: jbb48@cam.ac.uk
Dr. Steve Martin, Coordinator of Cambridge Physics Experience (CPE)
Email: scm71@cam.ac.uk