A Brilliant End to the Scholars Programme

Students from SJR joined other students from schools and colleges from across Greater Manchester to collect their Graduation Certificates at an awards ceremony held at the University of Manchester. Having completed a ten-week programme of lectures and seminars led by University research students focussing on study skills, academic research and the development of a written university-style assignment, the students’ certificates were well earned.
Weekly tutorials emulated a university-style learning experience, with students working in small groups supported by an expert researcher.  This whole experience provided students with a greater understanding of the commitment and dedication required to be successful in a university environment where there is a greater emphasis on independent learning.
One group of students following the science pathway explored the question “Mind over matter- How much control does the brain have over pain?” This required the students to research the nervous system, pathways of pain and how the brain deals with stimuli that cause pain. A second group studied the philosophical arguments around consent and considered political topics such as “Why should we obey the state?”
Dave Gent, Assistant Principal commented, “The students have thoroughly enjoyed the whole learning process and in particular working with current PhD students at a level far beyond that experienced in their A level subjects. Even though the production of an extended piece of writing, based on their own research completed to university standard appeared to be quite daunting, all were successful on the programme. With over half the students gaining the top first class classification, our students certainly have more confidence now to embark on the university courses of their choice.”
Whilst in Manchester, the students made a whistle-stop tour of the Manchester Museum and we keen to be photographed with “T-Rex!”