Peter Frankopan Prize for Academic Extension

On Tuesday 4th February, Great School was filled with excitement as the Fifth Form Academic Scholars showcased their research at the prestigious Peter Frankopan Prize for Academic Extension. The atmosphere was radiant, and with a buzz of curiosity the scholars presented their work with remarkable clarity, transforming complex ideas into accessible and engaging concepts.

Having completed short courses in either the Philosophy of Maths or Sport, the scholars delved deep into their chosen topics, working collaboratively in small groups. The students were challenged, not only to master their subjects but also to communicate their understandings with creativity and precision. The result was an inspiring showcase of interactive stands, thought-provoking displays, and dynamic games designed to captivate an audience of parents, pupils, and staff. The scholars rose to the occasion, confidently answering spontaneous questions from the audience. Their ability to explain intricate theories with simplicity and flair was particularly impressive.

Among the standout projects, Evie, Georgie, and Sienna engaged the audience with Doping Derby, an interactive game where participants debated the ethics of doping in sports. The audience was invited to decide whether to ‘dope,’ with their choices affecting the outcome of the game, as they spun a wheel to see if they would get caught drawing on real-world examples. This sparked lively discussions about risk-taking, decision-making, and sports integrity.

Equally impressive was the project by Leo, Chung Hang, and Rufus, who created an immersive stadium simulation to illustrate the impact of VAR technology in football. Their work examined how cognitive biases and recent rule changes influence decision-making from multiple perspectives, offering fresh insights. Andrew and Sasha captivated attendees with their clear and engaging explanation of the Monty Hall Problem, a counterintuitive probability puzzle. Using interactive iPad games and detailed displays, they demonstrated strategies to improve winning chances.

The winning project, presented by Nefeli, Serena, and Millie, explored the fascinating mathematical theory behind the idea that we are all just six degrees of separation from anyone on the planet—even Lady Gaga! Their research stood out for its depth, clarity of explanation, and insightful applications to real-world scenarios, impressing both judges and audience members alike.

The event was a real success, celebrating not only academic excellence but also the joy of learning, the thrill of discovery, and the power of effective communication. It was a testament to the scholars’ dedication, creativity, and intellectual curiosity—qualities that will undoubtedly take them far in their futures.