Commencing Waynflete Studies lecture series
Lower Sixth pupils embarking on their Waynflete Studies project enjoyed two engaging presentations today, when eminent speakers – both parents of MCS pupils – from the worlds of literature and science came to share their perspectives on research.
Marion Turner, J.R.R. Tolkien Professor of English Literature and Language at the University of Oxford, is a specialist in medieval literature and has published numerous acclaimed books and articles on Chaucer, including her award-winning Chaucer: A European Life. In a highly informative talk entitled ‘Kill Your Darlings: Solving Humanities Research Problems’, she shared many practical insights from her own experience of academic writing across a successful publishing career spanning more than 20 years. These included invaluable advice on structure and sources, as well as the importance of asking the right questions.
Meanwhile, pupils researching a science-based Waynflete were invited to hear from Christopher Herzog, Professor of Theoretical Physics at King’s College London and a Visiting Professor at the University of Oxford. A specialist in quantum field theory, string theory and black holes, Professor Herzog opened his talk by asking: what is the typical energy scale of a process in quantum gravity, and how might we estimate it? He then took the audience through the series of complex calculations that formed the basis of his research. Pupils did not hesitate to ask questions throughout the lecture, helping them develop a better understanding of some of the more challenging concepts. Dr Herzog also suggested several potential Waynflete Project topics that could be explored further, particularly in relation to string theory and its wider implications. Overall, it was an inspiring opportunity for pupils to learn more about this remarkable area of physics, while also considering new ways of presenting scientific research in a compelling manner.
The Waynflete Studies Programme is our unique version of the extended project, in which every Lower Sixth former has the opportunity to research a topic of their choice, under the guidance of an external university tutor. The course aims to bridge the gap between school and university, teaching the vital skills needed to produce a research-based, extended piece of work in response to an open-ended question. It offers a fantastic opportunity for pupils to demonstrate advanced critical thinking skills and an extraordinary ability to work independently to a high level; qualities that are highly valued by leading universities in the UK and overseas.
