Bridging the gap between cutting-edge science and school: non-formal education in high-energy physics

Abstract We report mainly on the global flagship outreach activity in particle physics: the International Particle Physics Masterclasses. It is illustrated on the example of Slovakia and the Czech Republic. The Masterclasses are described and their long-term impact is studied with the help of a survey among former participants. The positive effect of Masterclasses in shifting the attitude towards science is shown. We also discuss the modification of Masterclasses for a pandemic situation. Finally, we present CASCADE projects as a way to foster the interest in a field which has been strongly enhanced by previous experience, e.g., at Masterclasses.