Over 900 A level geography students attended the Hazards Conference at the Shaftesbury Theatre in London on Wednesday 4^th December.

Our geographers learnt from university experts about the most recent science of hazards. We heard a fascinating presentation from a geophysicist who shared the most recent fibre optic cable technology used to measure earthquakes. We also heard from a professor in volcanology who explained the causes and effects of the volcanic activity in Iceland over the last 12 months.

Other sessions included one comparing two earthquakes of the same magnitude that had dramatically different impacts, and another arguing that tsunamis are the deadliest tectonic hazard.

The session closed by looking at key concepts in the A level and the synoptic links between sessions and units to support revision and exam technique. Our geographers learnt a huge amount and were a credit to Saracens High School with exemplary attitudes throughout.

Our sixth formers enjoyed the opportunity to participate in a GSK workshop, delivered in collaboration with the amazing team at Spark! charity.

The session was packed with engaging activities, including:

• Insights into the diverse career paths within GSK and the wider STEM sector
• Speed networking and interactive skills-based challenges
• An exclusive opportunity for students to connect with GSK employees as mentors, offering ongoing guidance and support for their future STEM ambitions

We’re hugely grateful to GSK and Spark! for helping raise aspirations and broaden horizons for our future innovators.

By Basit, Year 13

Following our assessments the week prior, our ‘Making Memories’ trip on Tuesday was a perfect opportunity for an educational experience outside of the classroom.

We had a great opportunity to explore parts of central London that we may not have been able to see on our own and, therefore, discover the rich history the city has to offer.

Our treasure hunt led us to a range of different places, whether that was statues of historical figures, the church of All Hallows, or Hays Galleria. The row of stalls and stores alongside the South Bank epitomised the diversity of the city, as each stall had food and souvenirs from different cultures.

Not only was the trip a sightseeing experience but it developed key skills that we may use in our future careers, such as teamwork. Working in big groups meant that we had to communicate and support each other well to ensure that we followed directions effectively. Additionally, some of the clues were quite tricky and therefore required good problem-solving skills so we could figure out where our treasure was. Being on this trip is what allowed us to develop these skills far quicker than we could have in a classroom.

You are invited to Saracens High School’s Christmas production of ‘Scrooge the Panto’ on Tuesday 3 December and Wednesday 4 December at 6pm. Tickets are £5 for adults, £2.50 for children and free for under 11s. Click here for tickets.

Charles Dickens’ Scrooge, is given the panto treatment in this version of the well-loved story.

Set in Scrooge’s factory, it follows the rotten behaviour of mean old Scrooge towards his downtrodden staff. After two charity workers ask for money and cause Scrooge a near-fatal heart attack, it seems that nothing will ever change the meanest man in London. But when his cook, Jan Butty, bumps into the ghost of Scrooge’s late business partner, strange things begin to happen…

The performance begins at 6pm and there will be an opportunity to buy festive cookies and a hot chocolate during the interval.

Guests are encouraged to wear a Christmas jumper or something sparkly to get into the festive spirit!