How did we come to be here? According to current scientific understanding the Universe flared into existence 13 800 million years ago in an intense fireball. Within twenty minutes hydrogen nuclei had formed, and as the Universe cooled these were gradually transformed into atoms, stars, elements, galaxies, life and ultimately complex beings such as ourselves, capable of reflecting on the whole process.

This is an epic and thrilling tale, even more extraordinary than the origin stories told by our ancestors, so expect an exhilarating ride. This first day school focuses on the big picture: the Big Bang, the alchemical creation of the elements in stars, the formation of the Solar System, the emergence and evolution of life and ecosystems.

In the New Year the focus shifts to us: the 600-million-year evolution of our bodies, as well as the more recent development of our minds and culture.

These day schools complement each other but also stand alone.