CSFC Cambridge Newsletter

We would like to congratulate the students who recently took part in the mock A-level exams for their excellent cooperation and organisation throughout the process. These mock exams are a vital part of the preparation journey, providing students with the opportunity to experience the format and conditions of the real exams in a supportive environment. By practising time management, adhering to exam protocols, and becoming familiar with the pressures of an actual exam setting, students are laying the groundwork for success when the time comes. The mocks also allow us to identify areas where further focus may be needed, ensuring that when the official AS and A-level exams arrive, students are able to concentrate fully on demonstrating their knowledge, confident in both their preparation and the exam routine. We are proud of their hard work and dedication throughout this process.

At our international college, we are proud to be part of a vibrant and diverse student body, which continually fosters an atmosphere of cultural exchange and appreciation. One of the most recent and heart-warming celebrations was Africa Day, an event organised by our students to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of the African continent. The day was filled with a variety of activities that highlighted African traditions, including music, food, jewellery-making, and hair braiding.

Students worked together to showcase the best of African culture, from preparing delicious dishes that tantalised the taste buds to sharing traditional crafts and hairstyles. The atmosphere was one of joy and collaboration, as students from different backgrounds came together to learn, create, and celebrate.

Ms. Lewis, who attended the event, shared her thoughts: “I am so proud of all the hard work that went into making this day a success. All the students chipped in with cooking, and there was a genuine feeling of community among our students. The food was delicious, and I enjoyed trying the snacks and sweet treats too!”

Africa Day was not only an opportunity to enjoy wonderful food and crafts, but also a chance to deepen our understanding of the diverse cultures that make up our college community. It was a wonderful reminder of the importance of celebrating our differences and finding common ground through shared experiences. We look forward to more such events that bring our community closer together.

Our biology students recently had the exciting opportunity to visit the Centre of the Cell, a pioneering science education centre based at Queen Mary University of London. Located within the Blizard Institute at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, the Centre of the Cell is the first of its kind to be situated within working biomedical research laboratories. This unique setting allowed our students to see live research in action as they stepped into the distinctive orange pod that houses the centre, suspended above the laboratory spaces.

During their visit, students took part in engaging biology enrichment sessions, learning about the fascinating world of cells, the human body, and the latest advances in medical research. The centre provides a hands-on, interactive experience that makes complex scientific concepts accessible and exciting.

One of the highlights of the trip was a career session where students had the opportunity to speak directly with junior doctors. They gained invaluable insights into the realities of working in the medical field, learning about career pathways, challenges, and the personal experiences of those on the front lines of healthcare.

This visit was not only an enriching educational experience but also an inspiring glimpse into the future of medical science. We are confident that our students left the Centre of the Cell with a renewed sense of curiosity about the possibilities in medical research and healthcare careers.

A vital part of our school leadership at Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge is our Student Council. Our new Student Council, which will run from January until December 2025, was recently elected. Please see below the members of the Student Council, as well as an outline of some of the opportunities and challenges they are most looking forward to:

Tofunmi ALABI Oluwatofunmi: “I am looking forward to planning events that will hopefully put a smile on people’s face.”

Nathan HO Taz Him: “I’m looking forward to the challenge of representing my peers and working with others to tackle new opportunities for our school.”

Vishnuu KALAI SELVAN: “As a Student Council member, I’m looking forward to get an opportunity to conduct school events such as Sports Day and prom nights; as for the challenges, I’m looking forward to learning how to adapt my ideas to the needs of others.”

Khanh LE: “As a Student Council member, I’m excited about the opportunity to collaborate with my fellow council members and all students to organise events that are not only fun but also foster an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for everyone at our college.”

Renny LEE: “I’m excited about the opportunity to work alongside my fellow council members and strengthen our school community by representing my peers and helping make their ideas a reality, while facing the challenge of balancing diverse perspectives to ensure everyone feels heard and valued.”

Sanika SHARMA: “I look forward to interacting with my fellow students, and trying to address their needs and concerns and in so doing, I hope I can improve my communication and leadership skills, and my ability to empathise with a diverse group of individuals.”

Andy WAI Sai Phyo: “I’m looking forward to the opportunity to represent student voices and implement positive changes while tackling the challenge of balancing different priorities to meet everyone’s needs.”

It is clear that our new Student Council understand their mandate and are ready to follow in the footsteps of the phenomenal achievements of the Student Council who came before them.

This week, our physics enrichment programme continues with an exciting visit to the Cavendish Laboratory at Cambridge University. With overwhelming interest from our students, we’re thrilled to be taking our largest group yet to experience the renowned Cambridge Physics Centre Sixth Form Lecture, titled Hunting the Higgs, delivered by Dr. Sam Gregson.

During this fascinating talk, students will have the unique opportunity to delve into the world of particle physics and explore the quest to uncover the mysteries of the Higgs boson. Dr. Gregson will guide them through the ground-breaking research and cutting-edge technology behind the famous Large Hadron Collider, asking whether they have what it takes to control this monumental piece of scientific equipment and contribute to the world of high-energy physics.

This enrichment session promises to be an inspiring experience, giving our students a glimpse into the thrilling world of particle physics and the ground-breaking discoveries happening at the forefront of science. We look forward to seeing how this lecture sparks curiosity and ambition in the next generation of physicists!

The festive spirit is truly starting to take over in our boarding community, with Christmas trees—both big and small—popping up all over Tripos Court. It’s been wonderful to see our students and boarding staff getting into the festive mood, adding decorations, lights, and a warm sense of joy to the campus. Whether it’s a towering tree in the common area or a smaller, more personal display in student rooms, the festive cheer is certainly spreading.