Solar Ovens

At the Isle of Sheppey Academy, West site, Family Unit/Tutor Group Sheerness 17, were invited by Mr Mair of Dulwich 
College to research, design and build a solar oven as part of a competition with other selected Tutor Groups. In true Blue Peter fashion, Sheerness 17 constructed a solar oven  from recycled thick card, gaffer tape, PVA glue, string, matt black paper and aluminium cooking foil.

We were encouraged when Mr Mair assembled and demonstrated a solar oven that was made from polished aluminium and looked similar in shape to a satellite dish. When a saucepan of water was placed in front of the ‘dish’, much to our 
surprise, it began boiling within about fifteen minutes. We were told that a larger diameter dish or  was not practical because there was a possibility of the user burning their hand when reaching for the cooking pot.

Such is the power of the sun when harnessed properly.

We were fortunate because here at the Isle of Sheppey Academy, we were experiencing one of the hottest days of the 
year with temperatures approaching 31 degrees centigrade. Although we didn’t manage to boil our saucepan of water we managed to ensure that the water became  hot enough to make a cup of tea for our Headteacher Mr Klee.

Teacher Michael Thomas said 'We considered that the experience was very worthwhile because  Sheerness 17 is corresponding with a school in rural area of Africa. This experience  has given us a greater insight into some of the different methods that are available and those that are being developed and employed in Africa, that would work using ‘free’ energy. We were delighted when Mr Mair from Dulwich College awarded Sheerness 17 the prize for the best constructed oven and the most imaginative use of the materials available. We realise now, that you can cook without using wood, oil or coal as a fuel, but understand that help advice and innovation is always useful when trying to find a solution to an age old problem. We will certainly be passing on a record of our ‘cooking’ experiences to our link in South Africa, teacher Sharon Beltman as we would appreciate her thoughts and comments. Also the students of Sheerness 17 would like to thank Dulwich College, because without them we would not have this worthwhile experience.'