A group of our students had the incredible opportunity to attend a prestigious Masterclass at the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) as part of the Institute for Research in Schools' Big Data ATLAS Project. Throughout the day, students were immersed in the world of particle physics. They attended a fascinating lecture on the Standard Model delivered by a postdoc researcher from the University of Oxford, who explained how detectors at RAL work and gave a whirlwind 40-minute introduction to particle physics. One student reflected: "This trip was very fun to go on... This was very insightful because it gave everyone a different point of view on how to approach the data analysis for our project, and we all even learned new things—even Dr Shirazi!" Students also had the chance to work on their IRIS projects with the support of professional physicists, tour the RAL facilities, and participate in a careers panel discussion. They explored how different parts of the collider and its detectors work together, and saw first-hand how particle physics supports other disciplines. Another student commented: "I personally discovered that particle physics is not only linked to physics, but biology too. Particle physics can be used to analyse the structures of organic materials… These methods were even used to help create the vaccine for COVID-19!" The visit was both inspiring and educational, offering a glimpse into how the data gathered from large-scale research facilities like RAL and ISIS can contribute to solving real-world problems. "I really enjoyed the trip as I had the opportunity to explore possible career paths in particle physics and how all the logistics of an operation as big as ISIS can work and benefit future generations," shared another student. We are proud of our students for embracing this opportunity so enthusiastically. They returned full of excitement, new knowledge, and fresh perspectives on science and its future—an experience that will no doubt inspire their continued learning and aspirations in STEM. At the heart of the ISIS Neutron and Muon Source is a powerful particle accelerator, which begins by generating hydrogen ions (H+) and accelerating them through a series of specialized components. First, an injector and linear accelerator boost the ions to 37% of the speed of light. These then enter a circular synchrotron—a 163-metre ring of magnets—where the ions are stripped of their electrons, becoming protons. After nearly 10,000 revolutions, they reach speeds of 84% of the speed of light and are then directed toward the target station (on picture). There, the high-energy protons collide with a tungsten target, releasing neutrons through a process called spallation. These neutrons are slowed and guided to instruments that allow scientists to investigate materials at the atomic level—revealing how atoms are arranged and move, which is essential for developing new, advanced materials used in everything from medicines to electronics. Dr Shirazi