The Inspire Programme for Years 9, 10 and 11 launches for 2021
This is an online course focussing on a central theme which is approached from a variety of subject viewpoints; each virtual class includes articles, quizzes, and challenges. The 2021-22 programme is entitled “Visions of the Future”. Throughout four virtual classes, which will be released monthly in Spring Term 2022, the theme will be addressed from a wide range of different subject perspectives from across Maths, Science, Social Sciences, Humanities and the Arts.
The programme will examine some of the key areas in which our world is changing in the 21st century, and the implications this has for our lives and our societies, as well as exploring how people have responded throughout history to periods of great change – whether artistically, politically, philosophically, and so on. We will look at areas of cutting-edge scientific research, such as Artificial Intelligence, computing, and nanotechnology. We will look at how technological developments are revolutionising the way we see the world, both past and present, and question some of the most pressing ethical dilemmas facing humanity today: gene-editing, wildlife conservation, and the fight against climate change. And we will explore how societies, from the Ancient Greeks right through to the present day, have responded to a constantly-changing world.
Don't just take our word for it! Image description: A screenshot of the Inspire Instagram page announcing the Inspire Programme for Year 10 and 11. A comment on the post reads 'To any year 11/10 having doubts about this programme. Trust me it's soo useful. You don't have to do everything and the questions are so detailed. It tests your creativity and understanding of the question as well as knowledge. Plus it's a bonus on your future cv.'
We also include information on making informed choices about A-level subjects and university study, study skills, and revision skills. By taking part in the programme you will have an opportunity to follow your interests in depth, while developing skills and confidence in your ability. You’ll also have the chance to submit responses to each class’s challenges, to be in with a chance of winning prizes!
Following the online classes, there will be a Virtual Summer School for all participants. There is also a competitive application process for a free Residential Summer School at St John’s College, for participants in Year 11.
Last year’s programme, entitled “Why does evolution matter?”, was joined by almost 1,000 pupils!
This programme is open to all Year 9, 10 and 11 pupils from non-selective state schools in the UK, with Year 9 and 10 pupils automatically enrolled on the course for future years until they finish Year 11. The programme is free of charge to all registered participants, and pupils who may have limited access to digital resources will be eligible to apply for digital assistance support grants.
To find out more, and to register for the 2021-22 programme, please click here!