Harrow–Hatch End Physics Collaboration: Year 12 Students Take on Advanced Problem‑Solving Challenge

From Wednesday 14th January to 11th March 2026, Year 12 physics students from Hatch End High School were invited to attend a weekly series of advanced problem‑solving workshops at Harrow School. These sessions, held every Wednesday afternoon, were led by Dr James Banfield, Head of Physics at Harrow School, who guided students through a demanding programme designed to strengthen their analytical and mathematical skills.

The initiative aimed to prepare students for the Edexcel A‑level Physics examinations in June, as well as university entrance assessments such as the Engineering and Science Admissions Test (ESAT) in October. Each workshop focused on challenging Isaac Physics problems involving vectors, the work–energy principle, viscosity, and terminal velocity, encouraging students to apply mathematical reasoning and scientific modelling at a level beyond the standard curriculum.

Working alongside Harrow School pupils, Hatch End students experienced a collaborative and academically rigorous environment. The mixed school groups allowed students to compare approaches, discuss strategies, and build confidence in solving problems that ranged from A level standard to early university level.

A Year 12 student summarised the experience in their contribution:

“Since January 14th, our Year 12 physics class has been attending sessions over at Harrow School every Wednesday where they work alongside Harrow students and the guidance of Dr Bedford to tackle challenging and complex physics problems that range from A level to university level questions.”

Beyond the academic challenge, the setting itself added a sense of inspiration. Harrow School, one of the UK’s most historic and prestigious institutions, has educated notable figures such as Sir Winston Churchill, Jawaharlal Nehru, Lord Byron, Richard Curtis, and Benedict Cumberbatch. Studying in an environment shaped by such influential alumni gave students a unique appreciation of the school’s academic heritage.

A special thank‑you goes to Mr David Farrar, whose support and transport arrangements ensured that Hatch End students could attend the weekly sessions at Harrow School.

These workshops have strengthened students’ preparation for their upcoming examinations and sparked a deeper enthusiasm for physics. The Year 12 cohort now looks forward to applying their enhanced problem solving skills in the months ahead.

From Saransh R