Each summer, our SFC2 Scholars embark upon a research project, guided by the professional mentor who is usually an expert in their field of choice or given industry. Upon returning to College in September, they are asked to produce a poster summarising their research to present at our annual Academic Conference. Scholars of all years are invited to attend, alongside College staff and all students.
There is an energetic atmosphere as SFC2 students engage with attendees, providing further detail about their work and sparking bigger discussions. This year saw a variety of project themes including Behavioural Economics and Public Policy, Coding the Descent of a Mars lander, and Alzheimer’s Disease: Is Regenerative Medicine the Answer?
The following morning, Guild members were invited to attend a special Forum 42 event, where two SFC2 students offered presentations on an area of interest and answered questions from the floor. There was then a repeat of the previous evening’s Conference and Guild members could experience the passion of our SFC2 students.
Dr Woolstenhulme, Teacher of Religious Studies and Philosophy, and in charge of Academic Scholarship: Enrichment.
I attended the Scholars’ Academic Conference with my mind set on exploring the more science-based projects, however, my interests were immediately turned by the vast selection of economics, science, history and many more exciting subjects. The variety of topics was amazing, with something to appeal to everyone’s interests. The SFC2 students were extremely helpful and passionate in explaining their projects, research and findings, which made the experience even more enjoyable.
I was extremely appreciative that they made sure that they simplified more complicated language, especially when it came to science or economics, as this made their explanations and answers to questions a lot easier and more interesting to follow, for myself and younger pupils. The level of detail of the projects and the knowledge learnt is really amazing and provides so much enrichment and opportunity for students. Through this experience, I have learnt to explore a greater range of subjects and not to limit my options.
I think that the Scholars’ Academic Conference is an opportunity that everyone should experience. It offers a fantastic range of topics and enrichment, and it could encourage students to explore topics that they may not have even thought of before.
Sofiya, UC5 Scholar
Find out more about the Scholarship Programme at CLC, by reading our blog post:
