t the end of last term, Lower Sixth Biology students enjoyed an exciting and thought-provoking visit to the Science Live! biology focused educational conference at the Apollo Victoria Theatre in Central London. With talks from prominent scientists giving lectures on their specialist fields, the day offered a fascinating insight into cutting-edge research, the history of human development and the science behind our everyday behaviour.

The day began with an engaging and characteristically dynamic talk from geneticist, author and broadcaster Dr Adam Rutherford, who led students on a journey through human history using our DNA. Drawing on his acclaimed book "A Brief History of Everyone Who Ever Lived", he explained how modern genetics is reshaping our understanding of human origins and identity. Next to speak was Prof Robert Winston, the renowned, pioneering figure in IVF treatment and an internationally respected expert in human fertility. Professor Winston explored the science behind human progress, particularly in the field of reproductive technology. He did this while raising important ethical questions about how far science should go.

Professor Sophie Scott brought energy and curiosity to her talk on the neuroscience of laughter. She explained why we laugh, how humour affects the brain, and what our reactions reveal about human behaviour. The final talk of the day came from Dr Giles Yeo, a researcher at the University of Cambridge. His work on obesity and the genetics of appetite offered students a fresh perspective on why our bodies regulate weight the way they do. Drawing on his book "Gene Eating", he explored how our brains control hunger and ultimately influence our own body weight.

With our thanks to Mr Marriott, Dr Prendergast and Mr A Williams for organising this visit, enabling our students to hear from top-tier scientists and experts in their fields. Such opportunities make complex science exciting, and provide a direct link between the classroom and the fore-front of global research.