On Monday December 15th, the Biology department arranged a trip for over 50 year 12 and 13 students to the above conference, arranged by the Wales Gene Park, and held at St. David’s Hall, Cardiff. The event was very well attended, with the lower levels of the hall filled with A level students , many of whom had travelled a considerable distance to attend the event.

Speakers at the event included Dr. Peter Kille of Cardiff University speaking about the Human Genome; Prof. Mike Bruford of Cardiff University speaking about Wildlife Forensics; Professor Anne Rosser speaking about Stem Cells; Prof Dennis Murphy of the University of Glamorgan speaking about GM food; Dr. John Bassett of the Forensic Science Service in Chepstow, speaking about DNA and Crime detection, and Prof. Steve Jones of UCL speaking about genes and evolution (is man just a shaved chimpanzee?!)

All topics were relevant to the A level syllabus, with some being particularly useful to students about to attend interview for university places, or considering career pathways.

On completion of the evaluation form, the department received copies of a disc on the ethics of the forensic use of bioinformation, which will be a valuable addition to our resources. Additionally, students were directed to the Wales Gene Park website, where information about the talks is available.

Our students’ behaviour was of the highest standard throughout – they were a real credit to the school. The trip passed without incident, and was much appreciated by the students. At the end of the conference [3.30pm], students were allowed some free time for Christmas shopping, returning to the bus by 5.15pm, rounding off a most enjoyable day!

Mrs Jayne Griffiths, Mrs Liz Mitchell, Mr Ian Dyson