Monday afternoons at King’s is a time when Sixth Form pupils are given a chance to step outside the normal curriculum and hear from a diverse array of speakers on topics of broader interest and application.

This Monday saw the L6^th Form hear from a university speaker on research in Extended Projects, whilst the U6^th Form were challenged in their views on tourism and volunteering.

With many of the U6^th Form shortly to be pursuing their own travels, either as part of a gap year or during their summer holidays, they benefitted from the knowledge and direction of experienced travel coordinator, Adrian Ferraro of STC Exhibitions. He spoke on a diverse array of related topics, ranging from how to stay safe on one’s travels, to planning of routes and areas to visit, encouraging pupils to step off the norm and visit some more unusual and lesser travelled locations, where a more authentic and unique experience may be found. The latter half of the session was devoted to discussion and thought provoking insights into responsible tourism. Pupils were challenged to think of the value they brought to developing communities when visiting them, considering the ethics of orphanage volunteering, the impact of animal sanctuaries, the environmental footprint of their journeys, and how to ensure the money they pay is actually of benefit to the local community rather than a large commercial enterprise.

Meanwhile, many of the L6^th Form heard from Dr Richard Penny of the University of Southampton, who came to speak to pupils completing Extended Projects (EPQs). Having already delivered a talk on how to do academic research earlier in the year, Richard offered brilliant advice on how to structure and write up the EPQ essays. He offered pupils an insight into how academics think about structure and gave very practical tips for writing and referencing. The pupils will start planning their EPQ essays this week and Richard has thoroughly equipped them for the task!

Will Daws - Deputy Head - Sixth Form