As part of our A Level English course, Year 12 pupils attended the inaugural GDST English Literature Symposium organised by Bromley High School and Wimbledon High School.
Created by our Head of English Priya Christie and Lucinda Gilchrist, Head of English at Wimbledon High School GDST the symposium brought together Year 12 and 10 pupils from across the GDST, for a day of keynote talks, breakout sessions and a student panel. Imogen, Year 12, Bromley High School pupil attended they Symposium and below is what she had to say:
The day was made up of five lectures, with keynote speeches delivered on the value of studying English Literature, and the idea of the ‘Gothic Novel’. We also had the opportunity to select three further talks to attend, on topics such as ‘The Sisters of Shakespeare’ and an introduction to literary theory. All of these enabled us to view literature beyond the bounds of the A Level specification, gaining insight into different ways of reading texts.
One of the highlights of the day was the ‘blind date with a book’ exchange. Everyone wrapped up their favourite reads, leaving hand-written recommendations behind and then we each selected a mystery book to take away with us. It was a fantastic and fun way for everyone to share their love of reading and try out new genres without judging a book by its cover.
The day concluded with a panel discussion which I participated in alongside three other girls, where we discussed the relevance of studying Shakespeare in the modern day. Challenged to speak on both sides of the argument, ideas such as the use of Shakespeare in colonial Britain and the eternal themes present in his plays were put forward to the student audience, and at the end of the discussion a large proportion had changed their views.
Overall, the day enabled A Level students to engage in academic debate, explore unique perspectives and consider complex ideas beyond the standard curriculum whilst connecting with likeminded peers.