During the Eton Summer School Preparation Course, I was fortunate to be part of the Biology and Chemistry cohort, which gave me the opportunity to engage in a wide range of academic lectures and practical sessions. As the programme separated Biology and Chemistry into dedicated sessions, I was able to develop a deeper understanding of each subject individually, an approach that both my peers and I greatly appreciated.

As part of the Chemistry cohort, I completed a variety of practical experiments that both expanded and challenged my understanding of the subject. These sessions pushed far beyond the scope of school-level chemistry, introducing me to new concepts and demonstrating the vast possibilities within the field. Learning how to carry out practical investigations safely and effectively, while also exploring the complex scientific principles behind them, provided a valuable insight into what studying Chemistry at university might be like.

The Biology sessions combined theoretical learning with hands-on practical work. Two particularly memorable activities were a whole-body rat dissection and a bull’s eye dissection. Gaining first-hand experience of anatomy while simultaneously learning about the structure and function of different biological systems was both fascinating and unforgettable, despite the awful smell. Exploring topics such as immunisation, antibodies, and human anatomy introduced me to medical terminology and processes in greater depth, further strengthening my enthusiasm for pursuing Medicine at university.

While studying at Eton itself may remain out of reach for students of a similar background [annual fees of over £63,000!], participating in the Summer School Preparation Course was an eye-opening and rewarding experience. Throughout the week, I felt welcomed into a genuine academic community. The town-centre campus, combined with the enthusiasm and expertise of the teachers, created an environment that was both intellectually stimulating and thoroughly enjoyable. I would highly recommend this experience to anyone seeking to broaden their academic horizons and gain a taste of university-style learning.

Prem [Y13]