This year the Society has had a full programme starting with a trip to Oxford University for year 11 members.  The aim of this trip was to look ahead and to look beyond school education to some of the possibilities which are available to the most able students and to inspire them to make the most of the opportunities they may have.  This gave them a chance to see one of the world’s most prestigious universities which although may not be on their list in the Upper Sixth form has no doubt given them an encouragement to aim high.

“Last Friday’s trip to Oxford was really useful. It has made me realise my potential and the standards I should be aiming for. I especially learnt a lot from the tutors who gave me information on degrees and what grades I would need to get into the university. The tours were very insightful and the company was very enjoyable. Next time I would like to see Cambridge.”  Tom Hutchinson, Year 11.

A Scholars’ Critical Thinking Workshop was held in the autumn term to bring all age groups together.  Given a variety of situations, including a whodunnit and a debate on whether it is reasonable to believe that Australia exists, members had to try out different approaches to argument. This was followed by a formal dinner at which there was an opportunity to chat to the speaker and relax after a brain-stretching day.

The Society visited Poland at half term in the Lent term.  The first and most important visit was to the Nazi death camps at Auschwitz and Birkenhau.