St Mary’s students gain first-hand experience of university life

 Our Year 10 Triple Scientists were invited to attend the University of Essex’s Biology Conference on Wednesday 20 September. The day began with a presentation on the future of Biology this century, by the Head of Biological Sciences, followed by a talk from an inspiration motivational speaker. He encouraged them to be fearless, to have passion and curiosity and to take every opportunity presented to us. This informative and fun session got everyone in the right mood for learning. The students then heard a fascinating lecture by a researcher studying ‘ecosystem engineers’, specifically beavers, sand-mason worms and diatoms, looking at how one small change in the environment can have a major, widespread impact. The practical session looked at classification of invertebrates, viewing live specimens under the microscope. In addition, the girls had a campus tour and then saw presentations by a PhD student and a research officer on career pathways and invaluable study skills. Mrs Tew, Biology Teacher at St Mary’s remarked “The day was a real success, and very much enjoyed by the girls, many of whom are keen to take Biology at a higher level in the future”.