Students had a wonderful opportunity to participate in the Cambridge University - Homerton Biology Challenge for the 2025-26 academic year (ongoing). The challenge comprises multiple rounds, each featuring a broad, thought-provoking question linked to Biology, i.e., ‘Can new life be created?’ and ‘Why is Maths a gift for Biologists?’. Options for submitting responses include essays, audio, video, posters,and presentations.

Designed to mirror university-style questions at interviews, exposure to, and engagement with scientific research, this challenge put many skills to the test, such as critical thinking, effective written communication, and thoughtful research, utilising multiple resources to produce responses. Some students received certificates for participation, ‘commended’ for their entries, equal to 2 points, with some also earning a badge of Merit equal to 0.5 bonus point. It is a significant and proud achievement, both for students and teachers at Heston Community School.   

Participants said the experience boosted their confidence and deepened their interest in pursuing science in the future. The challenge inspired greater enthusiasm for biology and motivated students to continue exploring complex scientific topics beyond the classroom. It is an experience we will never forget.  

Ali Babar [Year 12]

Heston Community School was honoured to welcome dignitaries and guests from the Borough to the annual Holocaust Memorial Day organised by the Hounslow Friends of Faith. Our special guest was Eliana Ostro, granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor, who delivered a powerful and deeply moving presentation. Through personal family stories and reflections passed down through generations, she helped us understand the lasting impact of the Holocaust and the importance of preserving these memories. Her message reminded us of our shared responsibility to stand against prejudice and ensure history is never forgotten. We are grateful for her time, insight, and willingness to share such a meaningful legacy.

Mr Clayton [Senior Assistant Headteacher]

We were given the chance to hear a deeply moving talk from the granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor. Through her powerful delivery, she guided the audience through her grandfather’s harrowing journey, describing the disappearance of his family, his wrongful arrests, and the constant fight for survival he endured. The videos she shared added an emotional weight that stirred compassion for him and for the Jewish community who lived through such unimaginable suffering.

She also connected the lessons of the past to the injustices of today, acknowledging the struggles faced by both Palestinian and Israeli people. Her message encouraged us to challenge hate, confront discrimination, and recognise how deeply rooted prejudice still is in society. The talk left a lasting emotional impact and reminded us why remembrance must continue.

Maria Beigi [12B]

The granddaughter of a Holocaust survivor delivered a powerful presentation speaking with remarkable emotion and clarity. She recounted her grandfather’s experiences during the Holocaust, describing the countless obstacles he faced, the loss of his family, and the injustices he endured. The videos she shared brought his story to life and left the audience deeply moved by the resilience he showed in the face of such horror.

Beyond recounting history, she highlighted the importance of recognising injustice in the world today. She drew thoughtful parallels to the ongoing struggles of both Palestinians and Israelis, urging us to speak out against hatred and raise awareness of discrimination wherever it appears. Her talk served as a powerful reminder of why remembering the past is essential for shaping a more just future.

Ayma Babar [12B]

On the 27 January, our school observed Holocaust Memorial Day. Dignitaries from Hounslow were in attendance, alongside the granddaughter of a Holocaust Survivor. We learnt about the Holocaust and its impact on those who lost their lives, as well as the survivors. We heard stories told from the survivors’ perspectives, which gave us an even deeper understanding of their experiences.

The Holocaust not only affected the survivors but also their families and the wider community. Many survivors were left with a constant feeling of fear, never feeling safe. They often felt they had to be careful wherever they went and struggled to trust others. This shows the effects of the Holocaust, how it influenced families and their ways of thinking.

Many victims who were found or managed to escape still faced hardships. Some had to bargain for their lives, sleep outside in the snow, or live underground with barely enough food to survive. Even today, Jewish people continue to face discrimination, and many feel pressured to hide their identities.

This memorial gave us the opportunity to reflect on past atrocities and understand how learning from history can help shape a better and safer future, one where everyone can feel equal and accepted.

Maryma Jaamac [10B] and Sharaya Vajpai [10B]