Finite element modelling software has been used to allow secondary school students to study nanoscale magnetic materials for hard drive recording applications. The students were introduced to the basic concepts of finite element modelling using a freely available internet game before modelling the magnetization reversal of single magnetic grains. This approach allowed the students to see the underlying physics of magnetization switching emerge from their investigations and introduced them to the principles of scientific research. The students have also now been included as authors of a published scientific research article. The learning model used here could easily be adapted for university-school interactions in other areas of physics. (Contains 6 figures.)