Year 13 chemistry students had the exciting opportunity to refine their skills with the guidance of three PhD students from Lancaster University.

To begin, Windermere students predicted predicted spectra from molecular models and diagrams. Afterwards, they ran samples themselves in the infra-red spectrometer, donated by the Royal Society of Chemistry outreach funding.

The session also provided a chance to assess the purity of aspirin synthesised before half-term. Pupils determined the melting point of their own aspirin samples and compared them with a Lancaster University reference sample. The results were impressive—particularly for Ihor, who ran his recrystallised sample through the infra-red spectrometer, achieving a close match to the Lancaster sample.

By the end of the session, all Year 13 chemists had successfully reviewed a key module of their course and were proud to see their aspirin’s infra-red spectrum and melting point closely align with the university standard. The experience reinforced their understanding of chemistry and provided a fantastic opportunity to apply their knowledge in a real-world context.

Windermere School is an Independent Boarding and Day School for ages 3-18, across Junior School, Senior School and Sixth Form. The school offers holiday courses and a summer school programme, as well as short term immersion courses for international pupils, as well as an award winning IB programme. Join the adventure today >