XL LECTURE SERIES: OPENING MINDS AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES 

HNC has recently launched our brand new enrichment offer for students. Enrichment is one of the key ways students at HNC develop new skills, open their minds and enjoy experiences outside of the classroom that help them to take their next steps with confidence.

Students complete at least one block of enrichment per academic year, and can opt in to more activities and opportunities if they wish to. A number of enrichments, including the XL lecture series, take place on an all year round basis. As we approach our first Year 11 Open Event of the year, we are shining a spotlight on this special series of talks which helps students to expand their horizons and build their cultural capital – which is key to helping students to shine during competitive university and degree level apprenticeship interviews.

The XL programme offers university style lectures on a weekly basis, on a vast range of fascinating, unique and insightful topics. Many of these will not be linked to a student’s chosen study programme, but will open their eyes to the wider world.

The series started this academic year with a lecture entitled ‘How to Fill Your Heart” which inspired students to understand how in making the effort of becoming their best selves they can feel fulfilled in life. Students will also be exploring some big questions including if there is life after real life, and if some people are born to kill. There will also be some sessions which will develop some key skills including helping students to prepare to apply to Oxbridge, and an energetic and interactive series on ‘The Art of Public Speaking.’ Due to the popularity of the XL lectures last year, a new series has also been offered to Year 13 students.

Catherine Cushnie, Assistant Principal comments: “HNC offers students an experience that goes far beyond ensuring they achieve their academic potential. Our vision is to open minds, and help our young people to explore the wider world around them. This is vital in developing their cultural capital, and ensuring they can shine in competitive university interviews where academics are seeking more than excellent grades. Our lecture series is a key element of this, ensuring students expand their knowledge far beyond their course content. Our lecture series encourages students to question and explore the world around them, as well as offering them insight into how they can aim for and secure places at top universities. Students can experience a varied and wide range of topics this year, and we’re looking forward to hearing their feedback.”

In Year 11? Join us at our upcoming Open Event on Saturday 14 October from 9.15am – 3pm (last entry 2.30pm) to find out more about our XL Programme.

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