Science Week 2025

Across a series of engaging events, pupils explored the frontiers of science, from space telescopes and gene sequencing to gold refining and trivia battles. We were especially honoured to welcome back three Old Boys: Dr Andrew Tong (OS 1994), Dr Thomas Barlow (OS 1988), and Associate Professor Benjamin Pope (OS 2008), each of whom returned to share their journeys and insights with current pupils. Their enthusiasm for science and science education was infectious, and their presence emphasised the lifelong impact of a strong scientific foundation.

Pictured: Dr Andrew Tong (OS 1994)

From Sydney Grammar School to the Stars

National Science Week launched with a talk to Form III from Dr Benjamin Pope, a physicist and data scientist who hunts for exoplanets using NASA space telescopes. He shared how machine learning helps uncover faint signals from distant worlds and highlighted the strength of Australian space science. Dr Pope also took the time to focus on questions from the boys, encouraging them to follow their interests and reminding us that science careers often take unexpected and exciting paths.

Pictured: Dr Benjamin Pope (OS 2008) and Ms Briahannon Campbell

Decoding Disease: Exploring the Frontiers of Genetics

Form IV boys were privileged to hear from Dr Ingrid Sinnerbrink, clinical geneticist at Nepean Hospital, and Dr Gladys Ho, senior scientist at the Children’s Hospital at Westmead. Both are lecturers at the University of Sydney’s Faculty of Medicine and Health. Their engaging presentation explored the real-world impact of clinical genetics and genomics, using examples to highlight how modern gene analysis is transforming diagnostic medicine. The boys gained insight into cutting-edge research and the exciting future of personalised healthcare, sparking curiosity about careers in science and medicine.

Pictured: Dr Gladys Ho and Dr Ingrid Sinnerbrink

Curiosity, Courage, and the Case for Calculus

Dr Thomas Barlow brought a wealth of experience to his lunchtime talk, having worked as a computational chemist, biomedical research fellow, Financial Times columnist, and science advisor to the Australian Government. Speaking candidly to the boys, he offered thoughtful advice for aspiring scientists: pursue what truly sparks your curiosity, and don’t worry about being Einstein – rigour and drive matter more. He reminded us that life rarely follows a straight path, and that taking risks can make it more rewarding. Dr Barlow emphasised originality and reliability as the hallmarks of good science, urging the boys to read widely and think critically, especially in the age of AI. In response to a pupil’s question about advice he’d give his younger self, he offered two gems: “You can’t do too much mathematics,” and “Don’t flog a dead horse – sometimes it’s wise to fail fast.”

Pictured: Dr Thomas Barlow (OS 1988)

National recognition in the Junior Science Olympiad

In June, pupils from Form II and Form III took part in the Junior Science Olympiad exam, the first step toward representing Australia at the International Junior Science Olympiad. Samuel Lesnie-James (III) was one of twenty-five pupils nationwide selected to attend the prestigious JSO Spring School. Held at the Mungga-Iri Jingee Academy of Future Skills in Canberra, the programme offers accelerated learning in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Samuel will collaborate with like-minded peers and expert educators from across the country and compete for a position on the Australian Junior Science Olympiad team.

Pictured: Samuel Lesnie-James (III) who was selected to attend the prestigious JSO Spring School