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Extreme Materials – Antarctica

Discover how scientists and engineers help people to live and work in one of the harshest environments on Earth - Antarctica.

Who is it for: Key stage 2
Duration: 60 minutes
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On this workshop, students will conduct experiments to find the best construction materials for an Antarctic Research Station, similar to the one pictured.

Learn about the cutting-edge design of a real Antarctic Base.

During this hands-on workshop, students will conduct experiments to find the best construction materials for an Antarctic Research Station.

This workshop isn’t available between 13 November – 22 December 2023. See details of our alternative seasonal workshops during this period.

Curriculum links

Key stage 2
Design and technology
  • Properties & changes of materials
  • Working scientifically

By the end of the workshops students will have discovered:

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How engineers use their knowledge of material properties to help people live and work in extreme conditions.

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How to test the properties of materials using a range of lab equipment.

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The properties of some unusual materials.

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How extremes of temperature can affect the properties of materials. (freeze)

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What it is like to live in Antarctica.

School trip prices

Teachers and adult helpers go FREE!
Workshop only
£5.00 per pupil
Workshop and science centre visit
£10.00 per pupil
Post-visit resource

I’m a scientist (online) sessions

£30.00 per class

What other teachers say...

“There were lots to do and the activities filled the whole day well.”

Thornhill Primary School

‘It has been a fantastic day! The workshop was wonderful – really interactive. The children have loved it.’

The Independent Grammar School Durham