Peter Frankopan Prize for Academic Extension

In a new competition this year, sixteen Fifth Form students took the opportunity to delve deeply into beyond-the-syllabus subjects of their own choice. The idea was to extend our scholars by getting them used to independent work, while also preparing them for the rigours of Sixth Form study.

On the Presentation Evening an audience of parents, staff and students witnessed an eclectic range of topics, many of which would only be encountered at top universities. To prepare, the students had each completed ten hours of an MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) of their choice over the half-term Exeat. They then collaborated in groups of similar subjects for the final short presentation.

The winners of the inaugural Peter Frankopan Prize for Academic Extension were Gregor M, Alan X and Ollie H who completed MOOCs on Artificial Intelligence; Advanced Algorithmics; and Graph Theory with Python and Game Theory. Their ability to understand complex theories, explain them clearly and concisely, and then relate them to everyday life was impressive.

Highly commended were Locky A and Elodie S who completed MOOCs on Particle Physics and Astrophysics. They drew excellent comparisons and lessons from studying Physics on very different scales, drawing lessons about how evidence of life on another planet might come from very small sub-atomic particles.

Attie C-M and Arthur G contrasted lessons from the development of Taiwan and China and considered how people are willing to trade freedom for economic growth. Charlie T and Robbie I contrasted the development of China and Ancient Greece, drawing similarities but also important differences, such as the role played by language. Cordelia C, Olivia H and Alina K explored Social and Clinical Psychology. Eva S studied the development of Hollywood whilst Yash J investigated US Public Policy.

Overall, we learned about an impressive array of thought-provoking subjects. More importantly, our students really developed some excellent research skills while stretching their horizons way beyond their standard courses.