Yr 12 Biologists visit the Institute of Education for `Science Day`

On Wednesday 25^th January, Tabasum, Aayushi and I were fortunate enough to visit the Institute of Education for some lectures and exhibitions on genetic diseases and cures. On arriving at Russell Square and seeing the magnificent building itself we knew immediately that we were about to have fantastic day.

The first lecture was at 10.30am, and consisted of Harvard University graduate, Dr Dan Kaganovich explaining about keeping cells healthy and neurodegenerative diseases. This was extremely interesting and we learnt about misfolded proteins causing many genetic diseases. This lecture was shortly followed by a series of short `films` about various vaccines, medicine and drugs which are currently being developed for specific illnesses.

After a short lunch break, another series of films was shown, followed by two lecturers; Dr Arbel Artzy-Shnirman explained about Smart Drugs and Adam Abramson MSc told us about his project – providing clean water in Zambia. There was then a short question and answer session which concluded the day.

Overall, it was a brilliant insight into the life of a typical university student and was exciting and informative to attend. All three of us were greatly inspired by these lectures and we hope to attend many more in the future.

Ambareen Syed (Year 12)



Should you be booking your place on a Summer School course?

Research carried out by the University of Bristol shows that students who attend summer schools are more likely to gain places at top UK universities.  The research identified the "Summer School effect", in which the 76% of students who went to summer school, then on to a top university, compares favourably with just over 55% of students with a similar academic and social background who did not attend a summer school.   For more information go to: www.guardian.co.uk/education/2012/jan/18/summer-school-chance-university-place%20

For more information about higher education tasters and summer schools 2012, go to: www.totalprofessions.com/school-student/parents/higher-education-tasters-and-summer-schools

Considering applying to Oxbridge?

As part of our Siena Society programme this term we welcome Dr Helen Swift from Oriel College, Oxford who will talk on Oxbridge admissions on 23rd February at 5pm. In the meantime any students considering applying to Oxbridge would be well advised to attend one of the following Oxford and Cambridge Student Conferences:

These conferences are designed to provide up-to-date information on the application and admissions procedure at both institutions as well as providing an insight into student life. The events are aimed at students who have already completed their GCSE/Standard Grade examinations and are now undertaking further study.

The conferences will cover:

• Courses available at Oxford and Cambridge
• Applying to Oxford and Cambridge
• Student life
• Student finance and careers
• Interviews

Admissions tutors, academic staff and current undergraduates from both universities will also be on hand to answer students’ questions. 

Date	Region/City	Venue
Monday 19 March	Leicester	Welford Road Stadium
Tuesday 20 March	Cardiff	Millennium Stadium
Wednesday 21 March	Greater London	Epsom Downs Racecourse (New Venue)
Thursday 22 March	Greater London	Epsom Downs Racecourse (New Venue)
Friday 23 March	Northern Ireland	Lagan Valley Island
Monday 26 March	North West	Haydock Park Racecourse
Tuesday 27 March	North West	Haydock Park Racecourse
Wednesday 28 March	Newcastle	St James’ Park (Sports Direct Arena)
Thursday 29 March	Edinburgh	Corn Exchange

For more information go to: www.cam.ac.uk/admissions/undergraduate/oxbridgeconference/index.html