Exploring the Frontiers of Physics at CERN: A Professional Journey

Recently, I had the extraordinary privilege of attending the International High School Teacher (HST) Programme at CERN—the European Organisation for Nuclear Research—based in Geneva, Switzerland. This globally renowned programme, now in its 27th year, is one of the most prestigious professional development experiences available to physics educators worldwide. I am honoured to be the 20th Australian physics teacher selected to participate, and one of only two representatives from Australia in this year’s cohort of 46 teachers from 36 different countries.

Spanning two intensive weeks, the programme immersed us in the cutting-edge world of particle physics, featuring lectures and seminars delivered by CERN scientists and visiting academics. Topics ranged from the Standard Model and Feynman diagrams to antimatter research, medical applications of particle physics, and the role of artificial intelligence and machine learning in modern research.

A highlight of the experience was the exclusive access to CERN’s state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Large Hadron Collider, Antimatter Factory, and major detectors such as ATLAS, CMS, LHCb and ALICE. These behind-the-scenes tours offered firsthand insight into the scale and sophistication of the world’s leading experimental physics infrastructure.

We also participated in interactive workshops facilitated by both the Perimeter Institute (Canada) and CERN’s own Gateway Science team, focused on enhancing physics instruction through hands-on, inquiry-based activities directly translatable to the classroom.

Beyond the technical knowledge, this experience fostered rich collaboration with educators from across the globe, each passionate about inspiring the next generation of scientists. The opportunity to engage deeply with both theoretical and experimental physics has enriched my professional practice and deepened my appreciation for CERN’s motto: “Science for Peace.”

Looking ahead, I am excited to incorporate a range of new classroom strategies and activities into the Physics curriculum at Lavalla Catholic College. We’ve already begun showcasing new resources at the Kildare campus, and practical equipment—including a cloud chamber for visualising ionising radiation—has been ordered to support our students’ understanding of atomic and nuclear phenomena.

I extend my sincere thanks to the CERN Education team, particularly Dr Jeff Wiener, for the exceptional delivery of the HST2025 Programme, and to ANSTO (the Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation) for generously sponsoring my participation.

Finally, I strongly encourage any students with a keen interest in particle physics to explore opportunities to visit or engage with CERN—whether during their studies or in future research pathways. It is an unforgettable experience at the frontier of science.