Earlier this term, All Hallows’ School hosted its annual Physics Night In, an event designed to ignite curiosity and showcase the exciting possibilities within science. Year 10–12 Physics students came together for an evening that blended practical challenges with thought-provoking discussion.
The night began with a hands-on exploration of electromagnetism. Students worked in teams to construct simple electric motors, applying principles first demonstrated by Michael Faraday. Watching coils, magnets, and batteries transform into moving parts offered a powerful reminder of how foundational concepts underpin technologies we rely on today—from transport systems to robotics and medical devices.
The program then shifted to the fascinating world of quantum physics, led by Dr Josephine Dias, a PhD researcher in Quantum Technologies at the University of Queensland. Through interactive demonstrations, students observed phenomena such as diffraction, polarisation, and the photoelectric effect, gaining insight into how light behaves as both a wave and a particle. Dr Dias also introduced the concept of quantum entanglement, a phenomenon that continues to challenge and inspire scientists worldwide.
Beyond the experiments, Dr Dias shared her own academic and professional journey, illustrating the diverse opportunities available in scientific research and technology. Her experiences in advanced research centres in Australia and Japan highlighted the global nature of STEM careers and the impact of innovation on everyday life.
We extend our thanks to Dr Dias and our dedicated Physics staff for creating an evening that encouraged exploration and fostered curiosity for our universe, empowering students to pursue their interest in physics.
