Infinis à l’École
A project that pairs a scientist with a class for one school year to introduce students to research careers and the scientific method through experiments and group challenges
Infinis à L’École (ILE) is an educational programme that pairs a scientist with a classroom for a school year. The project aims to raise students’ awareness of research careers and the challenges facing science by letting them conduct experiments and interact directly with researchers in laboratories.
Throughout the year, students explore the world of research, meet a researcher, and carry out various scientific activities in class. Teachers are supported by their scientific partner, with whom they collaborate throughout the project.
The programme is designed for students in grades 4 and 5. Detailed educational resources and specialised materials will be provided to classes free of charge.
The project unfolds in three phases:
Phase 1 – Exploring Research Careers and the Scientific Method (January): A preparatory session allows students to discuss their perceptions of the researcher’s profession and learn about famous scientists. During the scientist’s first visit to the classroom, he or she presents their career path and profession; students then conduct group experiments to explore the scientific method and certain concepts in physics.
Phase 2 – Scientific Challenges (February through May): Over the course of 8 to 10 weeks, the class tackles the proposed scientific challenges. Students carry out experiments, explain their methodology, and record their results. The scientist visits the class a second time for a half-day session to discuss the students’ work with them and present their own research.
Phase 3 – Presentation of Work (June): The classes that participated in the programme gather at CERN for a day of presentations. Students present the work they completed during the year and are then invited to visit the Science Gateway.
The scientific challenges may focus on topics such as magnetism, light, sound, distance, physics, and weather.
Duration
1 day
Age
9 – 11 years
Languages
French
Location
At participating schools, at CERN
How to register
Are you a faculty member interested in participating in the 2026–2027 program? Applications are now open!
The program is limited to 8 classes for the 2026–2027 school year. Interested teachers are invited to complete the registration form and submit it to the organisers. Application deadline: October 9, 2026.
Partners
