Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE Inspires CH Students to Reach for the Stars

Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock MBE, the brilliant British space scientist and science educator, visited Christ’s Hospital on 21 September to give an inspiring talk in the CH Theatre for all students, as part of a series of events to mark the 350th anniversary of the Royal Mathematical School at Christ’s Hospital.

Dr Maggie held her young audience captive with her fascinating account of how she overcame many obstacles, including being dyslexic, to pursue her dream of becoming a space scientist. There was a lively Q and A session, with students asking a range of pertinent questions; finally, two Year 13 students had the opportunity to interview Dr Maggie.

Oluwasubomi said: ‘I had an amazing time interviewing Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock. It was a great privilege to sit down with her and discuss her incredible journey through her career, the previous work she has done and what she aspires to do in the future. During our conversation, I had the opportunity to ask her about her favourite moments whilst working on the James Webb Space Telescope. I am grateful to have had the opportunity to speak with her about her journey and how accomplished she felt when she saw the working product.’

Dr Maggie’s talk was one of a series of events planned to mark the 350th anniversary of the Royal Mathematical School at Christ’s Hospital. The RMS was established at Christ’s Hospital in 1673 by King Charles ll and went on to be shaped by some of the world’s foremost intellectuals, including Sir Isaac Newton and Sir Christopher Wren. The determination back then was to train children as mathematicians and navigators, to address the late 17th century need for a stronger maritime presence. The 350th anniversary of the RMS provides an opportunity to mark not only its long history but the continued impact it and the wider school have on young people and their role in the world of today and tomorrow. It has been a key feature of Christ’s Hospital’s work as the leading charitable school in the country to provide life-changing opportunities for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, equipping them with the essential skills required to navigate life.

Simon Reid, Head Teacher at Christ’s Hospital, said: ‘Although the call for seafaring skills is not as prominent today, the same spirit of exploration that defined the foundation lives on and we can only imagine the remarkable feats to be achieved by alumni of the future. We were thrilled to have Dr Maggie Aderin-Pocock with us to inspire our students with her remarkable story and achievements – she is a true role model, and her talk has left a lasting impact on students and staff alike.’