February 2018, Term 3 Blog

Well done to students for another busy term with Year 13 working hard for their PPEs and Year 12 completing in class assessments. It is pleasing to see so many students receiving excellent University offers so the hard work on those personal statements has really paid off.

Mrs Martin is continuing to support any students looking for employment or degree apprenticeships.

We are looking ahead to the Careers Convention on 2nd March to continue to support our drive to ensure students achieve the best outcome.

Mrs G Tiddy

Head of WG6

The Medical Society staged an interview Q&A session led by Sam Farmer of Y13.  Sam is well qualified to give practical advice and tips having himself attended interviews for studying medicine at University and for the role of paramedic.  Mr Beaumont ‘interviewed’ Sam to demonstrate the style of questions to be expected and offer useful technique tips. Sam currently volunteers for the St John’s Ambulance where he has progressed to trainer – quite a feat at just 18.

Captain Jessica Cast, who is an army medic, came in to speak with our WG6 students regarding general medical application procedures.  Students particularly interested in joining the medical profession received invaluable advice on interview techniques and roles within the medical field.

Y13 students were invited to attend a special degree apprenticeship meeting at Laing O’Rourke, our DEC course sponsors.  Representatives from Liang O’Rourke outlined opportunities available and answered student questions.  An ex-student, Jake Attaway who is currently studying for a quantity surveying degree with Laing O’Rourke as part of their apprenticeship scheme, led a session.

Our new WG6 Student leaders staged an informal Q&A session to answer any questions from the lower school regarding life, and studies in WG6!

Y13 Students have been learning about excretion and homeostasis.  It was an opportunity to get hands on and look at the structure of the kidney from a microscopic perspective as well as a practical dissection.

Year 12 students were fascinated by the gaseous exchange system of a fish.  This included looking at the structure of the gills and how they are specialised for their function.

Nuffield Research Placements give students in Year 12 the opportunity to work alongside professional scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians for 4 to 6 weeks over the summer holidays to complete a real piece of STEM research.  All travel costs are met, and many students receive full bursaries too.  Placements inspire and motivate students, and give many the confidence they need to go on to university, particularly those from low income families.

Eligible students should:

• Be resident in the UK, and in their first year of post-16 studies (Year 12 or equivalent)
• Be studying at least one A Level (or equivalent) in science, engineering, maths or technology-related subjects
• Have attained good grades at Level 2 (ideally 5 GCSEs or equivalent at Grade B and above, or close)
• Be interested in going on to study science, technology, engineering or maths at University, or having a career in related fields

Be available for at least 4 consecutive weeks in the summer holidays 2018

Students are now able to apply HERE for a Nuffield Research Placement in 2018! 

WG6 Chemistry A level students attended the Science Live Trip in central London.  Speakers included award-winning professor Sella from the University College, London.  Examination boards also spoke regarding how to approach the new A level papers.

We would like to wish a safe journey and ‘bon voyage’ to all our WG6 students travelling to Thailand (who had an incredibly early start on Thursday!) We’re looking forward to hearing of your adventures.