In June and July 2024, we hosted two cohorts of students for the Oxford Insight Weeks 1-week programme, an exciting STEM Lab Experience for a group of talented students aged 16-18.
Based in Oriel College and St Anne’s College, Oxford, this one-week programme was packed with advanced learning, practical lab work, and the opportunity for students to showcase their knowledge through group presentations.
A Deep Dive Into STEM
This programme aimed to give students a real taste of what it’s like to work in cutting-edge scientific research. Through a combination of lectures and hands-on lab experience, students gained insight into key scientific techniques and concepts that are shaping today’s scientific landscape.
- Lab Experience: The core of the programme was the intensive lab work, where students conducted experiments in areas such as biology, chemistry, and physics. From molecular biology techniques to chemical reactions, each experiment was designed to deepen their understanding of the scientific process while encouraging teamwork and critical thinking.
- Lectures and Seminars: Students had the chance to attend lectures given by Oxford University professors, lecturers and PhD students. These sessions covered a wide range of advanced STEM topics, providing a theoretical foundation to complement their lab experience.
The Final Challenge: Group Presentations
At the end of the week, students took part in group presentations, where they shared their findings and insights from their lab work. Each group presented their research to a judge, showcasing not only their technical knowledge but also their scientific communication and collaboration skills. This experience helped develop confidence and the ability to present complex ideas clearly and concisely — valuable skills for any future scientist.
A Week to Remember
This weeklong Oxford Insight Week STEM Lab Experience was an invaluable opportunity for students to gain practical research skills while exploring Oxford’s academic atmosphere. The combination of hands-on learning and team presentations provided a well-rounded, immersive experience that challenged students to think critically, work collaboratively, and communicate effectively.
As we look ahead to future programmes, we remain committed to inspiring the next generation of STEM leaders and innovators. Stay tuned for the schedule of programmes coming Winter 2024, Easter 2025, and Summer 2025!
