Academic Lectures
This half term we have been treated to interesting and informative lunchtime lectures on a range of topics including the theory of relativity, mountaineering, and Jack the Ripper. One of the most popular was the visit from Guide Dogs UK, and we also welcomed author Mrs Jennifer Edwards. This half term's lecture series culminated in a very popular, informative and fascinating lecture by high-flying Barrister Mr John Ryder which saw Wrekin pupils and their parents as well as pupils from Newport Girls High School join us in our Theatre.
The first Academic Lecture of the term was 'An Introduction to the Theory of Relativity'. Physics Technician Miss Hartland gave a really insightful lecture about the Theory of Relativity, its relation to space and time and the expansion of the universe. It was a great thought-provoking lecture delving into tricky world of relativity, and a brilliant start to this term's Lecture Series.
We welcomed Wendy and her trainers from Guide Dogs UK to learn about the important work they do. It was a fantastic presentation on the fabulous work this charity does and how they train the dogs to support those with visual impairments and their families. Wendy proved very popular and enjoyed the fuss and attention from pupils and staff alike!
During his lecture on mountaineering, Mr Spence spoke about his experiences, particularly in Bolivia, and it was interesting to see and hear about his climbing adventures with friends and family. The lecture delved into the adaptability and ingenuity needed whilst climbing the steep rocky cliffs. Mr Spence also spoke about his climb up Mount Kenya, a story which was of particular interest to those pupils who will be taking on that challenge during the trip to Kenya this summer!
Mr Blanch, Head of Wrekin Business School, delivered an interesting presentation entitled ‘The Whitechapel Murders: the ghastly crimes of Jack the Ripper'. The Whitechapel Murders were committed in or near the impoverished Whitechapel district in the East End of London between 3 April 1888 and 13 February 1891. At various points some or all of these unsolved murders of women have been ascribed to the notorious unidentified serial killer known as 'Jack the Ripper'.... But what was his real name? And was it just the one murderer?
Mrs Jennifer Edwards, a doctoral student at the University of Chester, and Wrekin parent, delivered a very interesting talk entitled: ‘Historical and Neo-Historical Crime Fiction.’
Delving into the complex differences in writing and character styles throughout the years, it was great to hear Mrs Edwards talk so passionately about her chosen thesis subject.
We welcomed Mr. John Ryder KC to deliver our last lecture of this half term.
Highly acknowledged in his field, it was incredibly interesting to hear about his experiences in Criminal Law and what life is like as an esteemed Barrister.
Thank you so much, Mr. Ryder. You have certainly got our pupils (and staff) buzzing about Law and your career!
After he left Mr Ryder got in touch with this message: I thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon and...I was immensely impressed by the students. They are a quite exceptionally charming group, good humoured, interested, perceptive and courteous. They are quite evidently all extremely happy and thriving. It reflects outstandingly well on Wrekin.
It was also a pleasure to welcome pupils from Newport Girls’ High School to our lecture. We hope you enjoyed your time with us and have left full of knowledge about this exciting profession.
