In a forward-thinking collaboration with Ramboll, our A-Level physics learners were given an in-depth look at the power and potential of wind turbines as a key to sustainable energy. Ramboll, an independent architecture, engineering, and consultancy company established in Denmark in 1945, brought its wealth of expertise directly into our classroom. With a presence in over 35 countries and generating EUR 1.9 billion in revenue, their knowledge in sustainable development is unparalleled.  

The session kicked off with Ramboll experts Savvas, Anojan, and Callahan sharing their educational and career journeys, shedding light on what drives their commitment to renewable energy. The discourse then shifted to the UN's five sustainable development goals, emphasising the pivotal role of the energy sector in achieving these objectives. 

A focal point of the masterclass was the discussion on Ramboll's involvement in offshore wind projects, such as the Moray East offshore wind farm, and the challenges in transitioning to a 100% wind-powered grid. Through these discussions, our learners were not only informed but also engaged in critical thinking about sustainable energy solutions.

"During the session with Ramboll, I learnt first-hand the challenges of wind power offshore and onshore. I now have a much greater appreciation for the intricacies of wind turbine design," year 13 learner Ben shared. 

A key highlight of the masterclass was the exploration of mass flow rate, a concept crucial to understanding wind turbine efficiency. The Ramboll experts defined mass flow rate and guided our learners through the steps to calculate it, demonstrating its significance in the power equation. This deep dive into the physics behind wind energy provided our learners with the foundational knowledge needed to calculate the potential energy output from a turbine. By grasping the intricacies of how mass flow rate influences turbine power generation, learners gained valuable insights into optimising wind energy conversion and the engineering principles that drive sustainable power solutions. 

Our visitors also explored technical aspects of wind energy, such as rotor aerodynamics and power equations. Learners applied their physics knowledge to understand how wind energy is harnessed and explored methods to increase turbine efficiency.

"We are immensely thankful to the Ramboll team for providing such a comprehensive and engaging masterclass. It's opportunities like these that broaden our learners' horizons and prepare them for impactful careers," reflected Janice, ourCcareers and Progressions lead. 

Our learners left the session inspired, equipped with a deeper appreciation for renewable energy and motivated to explore the possibilities within the field of physics and beyond.