The Department aims to instil a widespread and genuine interest in this dynamic subject. A GCSE course is offered as an extra incentive for motivated pupils. Marlborough College has the unique facility of an observatory with a professional class telescope, enlivening learning beyond normal classroom teaching.
Programmes of Study Enrichment
Mr C E Barclay (Head of Department)Mr J A GentonMiss R D Kettle
In the Shell (Year 9) all pupils receive two modules of Astronomy as part of their Physics curriculum. In addition, all Shell pupils visit the College observatory for an introductory evening as part of a House group.
GCSE Astronomy is offered as an additional subject from Year 10, typically attracting around 40 pupils. This Edexcel course involves greater complexity of ideas than is normal at GCSE level. Short tasks often involve Internet research, and pupils give a presentation on a constellation at the end of their first term.
Topics include observational techniques, star formation, galaxy identification, comets, meteor showers, black holes, cosmology and space travel. Observations made from the College Dome form the basis of any coursework.
The College’s Blackett observatory houses the largest telescope in Wiltshire and is of professional quality. Pupils may come up on any Tuesday or Thursday evening and at other times by arrangement. A link exists with Oxford University whereby pupils may attend graduate lectures and may seek work experience placements in the Astrophysics Department.
An annual expedition exists to enable pupils to join research astronomers on world-class telescopes on La Palma in the Canary Islands.
External lecturers frequently visit the College; the annual Science Lecture is given by an eminent scientist in the field of astronomy and particle physics.