During the summer holidays, Year 12 pupils Rohan, Greg, Millie and Lorelei had the amazing opportunity to take part in the Clifton Scientific Trust’s prestigious UK-Japan Young Scientists Workshop at Cambridge University. This international programme enables young students from the UK and Japan to build connections through engaging in collaborative, scientific research and cultural exchange.

Hosted at the University of Cambridge, participants lived in mixed UK-Japan houses at Jesus College, giving them their first taste of university living. Working in mixed teams with students from a variety of UK and Japanese schools our students engaged with cutting edge research into topics including cancer proteins at the Department of Pathology and the hidden records of climate change hosted by the Department of Earth Science. On the final day they were challenged to share their findings in 15-minute group presentations to a wide range of researchers and dignitaries including the George Windsor, Earl of St Andrews and Dr Michael King, CEO of the Japan Society. Students responded admirably to questions following their presentations, demonstrating a deep understanding of what they had learnt.

The cultural exchange was a highlight of the week. With Taunton School students enjoying introducing their Japanese friends to the British game ‘Duck, Duck, Goose’ whilst also enjoying traditional games, origami, and snacks at the Japanese cultural fair.

The week also featured a wide variety of lectures from inspirational early career scientists such as Henry London exploring the many and varied routes through scientific research. Students were privileged to receive awe-inspiring keynote speeches from Sir Martin Rees and Professor Roger Cashmore.

The workshop concluded with a formal dinner in Jesus College where students could celebrate their achievements and experience a distinguished Cambridge tradition.

The week proved to be as challenging and inspiring as ever with all students truly pushed to find their exceptional. Thanks must be given to Ryo Mizuta, Sam Lebbon and Dr Eric Albone for their continued dedication to scientific endeavour and tireless organisation of the exchange. We’re already looking forward to our continued partnership with Clifton Scientific Trust and next year’s exchange which will be hosted in Japan.