Guest Speakers for Students aged 13-15 – Now Confirmed!

As the summer draws ever nearer, we’re delighted to announce this year’s guest speakers for students aged 13-15.

Students at St Peter’s in Session 1 will be hearing from the fascinating David Cornthwaite, who will also be speaking to students aged 16-18, on the subject of chasing dreams, being open to new experiences and generally saying yes more. It’s a philosophy that Cornthwaite lives by as a genuine real-life adventurer, doing challenges such as his Expedition1000 project, in which he aims to complete 25 journeys of 1000 miles using a different form of non-motorised transport each time. So far, that’s included stand-up paddleboard, tandem and kayak – though presumably not all at the same time.
Students at Jowett Walk in Session 1 will have a talk by Dr Sundas Ali, an Oxford University lecturer. Dr Ali is known for her research into national, ethnic and religious identities, particularly the sense of belonging of Muslims living in Britain, though her interests span politics, sociology, economics and international development. She’ll be speaking on the topical and important subject of the politics of climate change.

For students at St Peter’s in Session 3, Shamim Gammage of Balliol College will bring what might at first seem like two very diverse subjects together: hip-hop, and the study of History at Oxford University. He’ll be speaking on the politics, history and growth of hip-hop culture, as well as explaining the fascinating ways in which he goes about studying this kind of topic. This provides a riveting insight into twentieth century U.S. history and the effects of racial discrimination from an easily comprehensible popular culture perspective.
If you’re attending Session 2, don’t worry – we have plenty of treats in store for that session as well. There will be more details coming soon – just watch this space!
Summer’s getting close, but we do still have some places available – browse our courses now ➙
Image credits: river; breakdancing.