Physics Work Experience
From Monday 13 - Friday 17 July 2026 for year 12 students studying Maths & Physics.
The purpose of the Work Experience Week is to learn what it’s like to work in an academic, research-based university through a series of workshops, lab sessions and a project where you will be working alongside other pupils with similar interests in physics and astronomy. This is your chance to explore fascinating Physics topics, meet world-leading experts and get a taste of what life as a researcher is like.
The objective of the project is to present a research poster at a conference-style event at the end of the Work Experience Week. Working with a partner and guided by a postgradaute researcher, you will create a conference poster around one of the School’s six areas of research.
The event is free of charge and lunch will be provided on the Monday.
Workshop details
You will get a chance take part in lectures and perform hands-on lab experiments that relate to each of our five research areas. There will be skill-testing workshops that will develop your problem-solving abilities and talks to help you make the most of Year 13.
Bookings are now closed
FAQs
What are the requirements for students selected to attend?
To join the programme, you should:
- Be in Year 12 and currently studying Physics AND Mathematics at A-level
- Be over 16 years old
- Have permission to attend from a parent/carer and your school
- Be able to attend for the full duration of the programme
If you’re passionate about physics but don’t quite fit all of the criteria (for example, you’re over the age of 16 and studying your GCSEs but are planning to take A-level Physics, or you’re on a different route but hoping to study physics at university), please still apply and let us know on the form about your circumstances.
Where does the event take place?
Activities will be held in the School of Physics and Astronomy on the University of Leeds campus. Students will be required to provide their own travel arrangements to and from the University each day. This is not a residential program and no accommodation will be provided.