www.abingdon.org.uk 11 Abingdon News Abingdon students James Longworth and Alex Heffernan were given a fascinating insight into the painstaking work of palaeontologists when they met University of Portsmouth scientists carrying out an analysis of the ichthyosaur fossil. The palaeontologists demonstrated the techniques they use to classify and further understand the specimen, including 3D scanning and spreadsheet modelling of features to find similarities with the closest known species of ichthyosaur. The 3D scanning technique is used to reconstruct both computer and physical models and diagrams of delicate specimens, allowing them to be manipulated, compared and shared among researchers anywhere in the world. As well as handling some of the ichthyosaur fossil remains, James and Alex were also shown the huge vertebra of a predatory. Ichthyosaur fossil Die Weiße Rose In February, linguists in the 5th Year and Lower 6th travelled to Oxford to take part in a White Rose Project Day. This research and engagement initiative at the University of Oxford aims to raise awareness of the White Rose resistance group ‘Die Weiße Rose’ which was responsible for creating and disseminating anti-Nazi leaflets in Munich during World War 2. At its heart were siblings Sophie and Hans Scholl and the visit was particularly poignant as February 2023 marked the 80th anniversary of their arrest, interrogation and execution by the Nazi regime. For the project, students translated leaflets created by the White Rose group and used them as inspiration to create a poster protesting issues in the modern world. Inspirational talk by Al Sylvester In January, Lower School pupils enjoyed a truly inspiring talk by adventurer Al Sylvester. Al told the story of how, after a career in RAF mountain rescue, he led the RAF’s initial unsupported attempt on the South Pole. He spoke about how he went about building his team; the ups, downs and realities of life in the Antarctic; and the resilience he had to show to recover from the frostbite he suffered. After the talk, the audience had lots of questions for Al and one lucky (and increasingly very warm!) individual got to dress up in Al’s kit.
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