HE+ Poster Project Lunch

On Tuesday 7th July, our HE+ students came together for a celebratory buffet lunch to present their research posters as part of the University of Cambridge’s HE+ Poster Project.

The HE+ Poster Project is an exciting yearly initiative that challenges high-achieving Sixth Form students to undertake independent academic research and present their findings in the form of an academic poster. As a key component of the University of Cambridge’s HE+ programme, it is designed to stretch students beyond the classroom curriculum while developing the analytical and communication skills required for competitive university applications.

Between mouthfuls of delicious food, students confidently presented their work to members of the Sixth Form Team and Senior Leadership Team, who were thoroughly impressed by the exceptional standard of the presentations. The variety of topics, all linked to the overarching theme of uncertainty, demonstrated both intellectual curiosity and academic ambition. Research areas included why we dream, the International Criminal Court’s ability to enforce international justice, the collapse of the Soviet Union, the global obesity epidemic, pharmacological testing, authoritarianism in Libya under Gaddafi, and the succession crisis after Edward VI’s death.

What stood out most was not only the depth of research that had clearly gone into each project, but also the fluency with which students explained complex ideas. The project provides outstanding preparation for the independent learning expected at university and has given our students a valuable opportunity to explore subjects that genuinely interest them.

Students will continue refining their posters over the summer before submitting them to the University of Cambridge by 1st September. Given the quality of work already on display, we would not be surprised to see one of our students recognised amongst this year’s prize winners!