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Students have impressed this week with achievements across art, science, and careers. Grace’s butterfly painting will be featured in the dot-art Schools 2025 exhibition, with Daniella and Ishani also earning recognition for their digital art.
Science lessons included electron microscope work and rat dissections, giving hands-on experience.
Engineering students gained valuable interview skills with Mast Group, while History pupils enjoyed seeing Hamilton live. These experiences reflect our students' dedication to fostering creativity, practical skills, and confidence for the future.
Read on to discover more of a truly remarkable week.
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End of Year Trip for Ignite and Year 10 students
We have limited availability for 80 students to get involved in an adventure course hidden in the treetops of Brockhole on Windermere.
Students will be met with zip lines, climbing obstacles and a stunning view of the iconic Lake Windermere.
When? Thursday, 17th of July.
The full cost of the day is £45, which includes the activity and travel.
If you would like more information, please contact student services.
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Studio School Wins at the Dot Art Competition
The annual dot-art Schools competition, a fantastic online initiative that culminates in a public exhibition, has once again highlighted the incredible artistic talent within the Liverpool City Region and beyond. This year, our brilliant Ignite pupils participated alongside Secondary (Year 9) and SEND schools, all vying for a spot in the prestigious exhibition. The competition, designed to nurture talent and raise aspirations, takes art beyond the classroom and into the real world.
Following a rigorous online judging process by respected arts professionals, the top three entries from each school were shortlisted. While the public vote is still underway to determine the overall winners, we are thrilled to announce that our school's winner, who will have their artwork displayed in the dot-art Schools 2025 exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery, is Grace for her beautiful butterfly painting, 'Vibrant Isolation'. This is a tremendous honour and a testament to Grace's artistic skill and vision.
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We also proudly recognise our talented runners-up: Daniella for her captivating digital piece, 'Dance of the Water Lotus', and Ishani for her impressive digital artwork, 'Kaliyamardhanam'. All shortlisted students will receive a dot-art Schools certificate in recognition of their achievement.
We eagerly anticipate the awards ceremony in June, where Grace, Daniella and Ishani will receive their certificate. The exhibition at the Walker Art Gallery will provide a wonderful opportunity to showcase the creativity and passion of our IGNITE pupils, further building their confidence and well-being.
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Ignite Scanning Electron Microscope
Throughout the week, every Ignite student enjoyed a cross-curricular Science and English lesson based on the book Where the World Ends, which the students have been reading. In the book, some children are stranded on an island where there are lots of puffins, and they stay alive by using things like puffin feathers and eggs. Students examined feathers and eggshells, with students also exploring the Hitachi Scanning Electron Microscope.
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There was also a creative writing exercise prompted by the Birds of America book in Liverpool City Library, but the students had to write their response with a feather quill pen!
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This Week's Electron Micrographs
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Here is the underneath of a beetle's foot. You can see its beautiful claw, but you can also see the brush-like structure on the bottom of its foot, which enables it to walk up walls. The thousands of tiny hairs on their feet, called setae, can use Van de Waals forces (weak electrostatic forces) to adhere to walls and ceilings. The beetle was a kind gift from Lily at the University of Liverpool.
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Here is some fungi growing on a tomato, you can see the fruiting bodies looking like mushrooms in a shop, but very much smaller.
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While preparing Teasel samples, Mohidian in Ignite found a spider…actually, we think it was a spider shed. Here is one of its little feet, check out its lovely claws.
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Here we have a flea from Mr. Storey's cat. It was a big hit with our students.
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Mast Group T Level Engineering Interviews
On Friday, the 9th of May, Joshua, Torin, Henrique, Robert, Coel, and Zach had an interview with medical equipment manufacturer Mast Group.
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We asked Joshua what he learnt during his interview. Joshua shared, "I learnt that not all interviews will be straightforward questions, and some questions can have different meanings to find out more about a potential employee." Regarding what Joshua enjoyed about his interview, he stated, "I enjoyed the question about the iteration of design of Mast's products as I was quite intrigued in how they were made and what the product was made for and its use." In terms of how the interview has prepared him for the jobs of tomorrow, Joshua shared, "It's made me broaden my mindset on how I begin an interview and to think outside the box, in order to be the best possible candidate for that role. Show the qualities the employers wish to see, but also be yourself as you don't want to receive the job, and it may not be the right fit for you."
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In terms of what Torin learnt during his interview, he shared, "I learnt what kind of questions they might ask in an intake for an engineering company and how to answer them." In terms of what the interview consisted of, Torin said, "I managed to answer the questions quite well and talk about my skills and how they can apply to their company." We asked him what he enjoyed the most, Torin stated, "I enjoyed talking to Rob and expressing how I would be a good fit for the company and how I'm eager to learn and improve my skills." In terms of how the interview has prepared him for the jobs of tomorrow, Torin shared, "I feel more prepared and confident for jobs in the future and can't wait to join the workforce."
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Rat Dissection
This week, Year 10 students participated in a rat dissection session in our state-of-the-art laboratories. We asked Shazza and Abdul what they learnt, Shazza said, "It taught me multiple things, such as the full structure of a rat's body and also how similar it is to the human body. Another one being how many wombs the female rat is capable of having and how to dissect in general through all the different layers of skin and organs." Abdul said, "I learnt how to dissect a rat and developed an understanding of a rat's internal organs."
Regarding what Shazza enjoyed the most, she shared, "Personally, I enjoyed pulling out the two kidneys the most, it is one of the most interesting things I’ve ever done in my life." In terms of how it has prepared our students for the jobs of tomorrow, Abdul said, "I have learnt how to be prepared for whatever life throws at me and also to be confident in what I do."
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In terms of how it has prepared them for the jobs of tomorrow, Shazza expressed, "As someone who is really passionate about becoming a Cardiologist, this activity was one thing that is incredibly vital, as the job requires cutting open hearts and looking deeper into internal organs and especially since the rat has a very similar body to the human. I really appreciate that Liverpool Life Sciences UTC has given me this opportunity. I don't think many other schools would offer a chance like this for their students."
Dissection sessions provide invaluable experiences for our students; they provide hands-on learning, application of theoretical knowledge, development of practical skills, encourage scientific curiosity and prepare students for future studies or careers.
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History Trip
Last week, 29 History students, Years 9-13, visited the Liverpool Empire Theatre to see Hamilton. This is the story of America's Founding Father, Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington's right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and helped shape the very foundations of the America we know today.
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Sickness procedure
From a safeguarding perspective, students who indicate they are feeling unwell will not be sent out of class as an unwell/injured student unaided may faint on the stairs or corridor. Staff will call first aid and first aid will go to the student. Students are not to contact home themselves when they are unwell, staff will call parents if needed.
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Leave us a Google Review
We strive to provide the best experience for our students. Your feedback helps us improve and continue delivering quality education and care. If you’ve had a good experience with us, we’d love to hear from you.
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Leaving a review on Google helps others learn more about our schools and gives us valuable insight.
Liverpool Life Sciences UTC
The Studio School
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Work Experience Opportunities at Bentley
Applications for annual work experience programmes at Bentley are now open, with opportunities throughout the business in Manufacturing, Research and Development, Finance and HR.
Designed for individuals aged 16-18, our opportunities offer a behind-the-scenes experience at the most sought-after luxury automotive brand in the world.
As part of the programme, you'll immerse yourself in the heart of Bentley's operations, experiencing first-hand the meticulous craftsmanship and cutting-edge technologies that define their iconic brand.
Work experience at Bentley is a gateway to professional growth and personal development. You'll have the opportunity to engage with Bentley's Early Careers team and connect with industry-leading experts, gaining valuable insights and forging lasting connections. Hear about the experiences from their 2024 cohort here.
Roles will be available across several business areas:
- Manufacturing Production
- Wood
- Sew
- Logistics
- Research & Development / Engineering
- HR
- Finance
- Product Line
Successful candidates will join Bentley at their campus in Crewe, Cheshire from Tuesday, 8th to Friday, 11th of July 2025.
Applications are open for two weeks, closing on Friday, 23rd of May 2025 - Click here to apply.
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Exam Season for Future Dentists: Free Virtual Get into Dentistry Conference
A common trap that many aspiring medical and dental students fall into this time of year is that they neglect the rest of their UCAS applications while they study for their exams. Unfortunately, while UCAS is still in the back of their mind, the stress of the whole process impacts their revision.
Upcoming free session: Limited spaces available
- Get Into Dentistry Conference is on Saturday, 17th of May, 9.30-3.30 pm - Click here to register.
The free conferences will provide full clarity on UCAS and the dental application process, so that students can concentrate on their exams. It is always better for students to invest half a day in fully understanding what they need to get into medical or dental school, rather than days in unknown uncertainty.
Agenda:
- UCAT Entrance Exam
- Exam techniques and sample questions from each UCAT section
- UCAT shortcuts and timeline
- Tactically choosing universities
- Personal statements
- Dental school interview skills
- Awards Programmes
- Extracurricular activities
- Work experience
- Applying for scholarships
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Insight into University Residential
Insight into University Residential Experience (previously known as Headstart) are summer schools run over four or five days where students get a taster of university life and an insight into a specific STEM subject. Students will get the opportunity to experience university-style lectures and work on activities and group projects with the support of academics and student mentors.
Students will stay in halls of residence and will take part in social activities in the evenings. These courses are for Year 12 students and are a great way to try out a STEM subject at university before applying.
Residential courses running in summer 2025
- Maths at Lancaster
- Mechanical Engineering at the University of Central Lancashire
- Materials Science at Oxford
- Aerospace Engineering at Liverpool
- Ocean & Earth Science at Southampton
- Chemical Engineering at the University of Central Lancashire
- Engineering & Physical Sciences at the University of Lincoln
Non-residential courses running in summer 2025
- Chemical Engineering and Biotechnologies at Aston University
These summer schools are run for small groups and so places are limited. Find out more and apply here.
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Games Design Bootcamps
Are you a student preparing for a career as a game designer, or a career-changer looking to make the jump into making games? Games Design Skill's intensive courses can help you build your career-ready design skills.
GDS is an educational hub that gives you direct access to veteran game designers and developers via their Game Design Bootcamps, focusing on mechanics, game writing, and level design.
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The programs are taught by industry experts (people who’ve worked for years at Blizzard, Riot, Ubisoft, and more) and are all about hands-on learning. Enrolment is open now until the 14th of June, and courses kick off on the 21st of June.
- Mechanics Bootcamp with Alexander Brazie
Master the art of game mechanics design. Learn to craft deep, scalable gameplay systems and communicate them clearly to teams (and in interviews). This one is made for aspiring systems designers or anyone who loves tinkering with game balance and rules.
- Game Writing Bootcamp with Kelly Bender
Dive into narrative design. You’ll create an industry-quality game writing project (think characters, dialogue, world-building) across 8+ deliverables, then polish it into a standout portfolio piece. Kelly's course is ideal if you want to be a narrative designer or game writer.
- Level Design & Blockout Bootcamp with Nathan Kellman
Build a playable 3D level from scratch. Using Unreal Engine 5, you’ll block out an action-adventure level through multiple iterations and playtests, honing layout, pacing, and gameplay flow. By the end, you’ll have a pro-grade level design to show off in your portfolio.
Each bootcamp runs for 12 weeks with live online sessions (you can attend from anywhere) and mentorship from seasoned designers. You’ll be joining a cohort on Discord, getting feedback from guest instructors, and completing projects that mirror real studio work.
On top of that, the courses are built by people who’ve designed or written for huge games (Assassin’s Creed, League of Legends, Diablo IV, and others), so they know what hiring managers want to see. They'll help you show your best self in your application materials .
Secure your spot on a GDS Bootcamp now - Click here to sign up.
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Horizon: MersEsports 2025
Get ready for an unmissable weekend of esports, gaming, and interactive experiences right in the heart of Liverpool.
Whether you’re a hardcore player, a casual fan, a family or just love games, Horizon: MersEsports brings something for everyone, with live tournaments, workshops, interactive games zones, VR, and a packed games industry expo.
Day Tickets: £11
Weekend Tickets: £16.50
Kids under 14: Free
Click here to buy tickets.
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Ten Tips for Standing Out on LinkedIn
LinkedIn, is a vital tool for professionals, job seekers, and career changers. It’s ideal for students who are just getting started.
1. Use a respectable email address
Tip: Gmail and Outlook are widely viewed as acceptable and respectable email providers.
2. Don't leave your profile half-done
Tip: Work relevant keywords into your narrative. Using appropriate words and phrases can highlight your knowledge of a particular sector.
3. A powerful headline
Tip: Many people use a vertical bar to divide their writing into sections | It signals the start of a new statement | See what we mean?
4. Don't be shy
Tip: It's recommend selecting at least ten skills to help you appear in searches.
5. Make meaningful connections
Tip: Include a personal note when you request to link in to stand out.
6. Leverage LinkedIn for self-development
Tip: Many professionals are happy to offer guidance on working in a particular industry or role; don’t be scared to ask and show you are taking the initiative.
7. Signs of life
Tip: If you are actively seeking a job or new clients, being active on LinkedIn should form part of your daily routine.
8. Looking for work
Tip: If you choose to share with all members, your profile picture will show a green #OpenToWork frame.
9. Create original content
Tip: Weigh the risk beforehand, but being controversial can help your post go viral. Whatever you choose to do, always be authentic and take care not to offend others.
10. Work the algorithm
Tip: The LinkedIn algorithm will reward you for regularly updating your profile.
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Mental Health Support
Make an online referral to Liverpool's Children & Young People's Mental Health Support. Children and young people, parents and carers in crisis can access support 24 hours a day, seven days a week, freephone 0808 196 3550. Visit the emergency advice page for more information.
Training for parents/carers & professionals working with children & young people
Merseyside Youth Association’s mental health promotion team (RAISE Team) deliver a range of FREE bite-size courses covering a range of mental health issues that impact children, young people and their families. Bite-size sessions coming up in May, delivered via Zoom.
- Child+Adolescent to Parent Violence+Abuse Session (CAPVA) Monday, 19th of May, 11 am-1 pm - Book here.
- Adolescent Brain Development - Wednesday, 21st of May, 9.30-10.30 am - Book here.
- Cultivating Self-Compassion - Wednesday, 21st of May 11-12.15 am - Book here.
- An Introduction to Eating Disorders - Wednesday, 21st of May, 4-5 pm - Book here.
- Body Image - Thursday, 22nd of May, 9-10 am - Book here.
- Mental Health Support for Children and Young People in Liverpool - Thursday, 22nd of May, 2.30-4 pm - Book here.
- Introduction to Self-Harm - Friday, 30th of May, 10-11 am -Book here.
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University of Law Online Session
Find out more about university life at the University of Law.
Join their online session to hear from current undergraduates about balancing studies, making friends, managing part-time work, finding work experience, and getting involved on campus.
Tuesday, 10th of June, 5-5.45 pm - Click here to register.
Ask your questions, pick up practical tips, and feel confident about your next steps.
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Apprenticeships for Individuals with Additional Needs
Many students have additional needs and may feel unsure about the support that will be offered by employers and training providers. Join to hear about the flexibilities that can be offered and the support that apprentices will receive.
When? Monday, 19th of May, 3.30-4 pm - Click here to register.
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Financial Futures: A Workshop for Students
Join InnovateHer for a free, 40-minute interactive workshop with MONY (previously Money Super Market) - designed to empower students with essential financial knowledge and skills.
When? Wednesday, 11th of June, at 9.15 am - Click here to register.
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Edge Hill Subject Taster Days
These events give students a valuable opportunity to explore their chosen subject, experience university life, and take part in hands-on activities designed to inspire and inform. Secure a spot soon before they’re all gone!
Edge Hill Taster Days fill up quickly. They encourage you to secure a spot as soon as possible. Follow this link to book your place on one of their following taster sessions now:
- Wednesday, 4th of June – Humanities
- Thursday, 5th of June – Sport & Physical Activity
- Thursday, 12th of June – Arts
- Wednesday, 18th of June – Education & Teaching
- Thursday, 19th of June – Sciences
- Wednesday, 25th of June – Health, Social Care & Medicine
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Career Magazine for Parents. Carers and Guardians
Packed with expert advice and insightful features designed to help parents guide their children through key education and career decisions, whether they're considering A-levels, Apprenticeships, or other next steps. Careers are not a linear path, and you cannot know what you don't know. Career map, aim to inspire and inform about all sorts of careers and opportunities now and in the future!
Click here to read the latest edition.
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Uniform and equipment reminder
I would like to remind parents of the uniform standards with regard to girl’s trousers. A small number of students are wearing fashion trousers, made of Lycra material and flared leggings in style. The expectation is for students to wear school trousers or a pleated skirt.
All students are required to have a school bag with them every day. This must be large enough to carry a number of A4 revision guides. We will provide your child with a suitable bag if they are unable to obtain one.
Jill Davies, Principal at Life Sciences and The Studio School.
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The University of Sheffield Online Subject Taster Days
Electronic and Electrical Engineering
Tuesday, 20th of May, 5-6.30 pm - Click here to register.
Computer Science
Wednesday, 21st of May, 12-1 pm - Click here to register.
Biomedical Engineering
Wednesday, 21st of May, 5–6 pm - Click here to register.
Landscape Architecture / Urban Studies and Planning / Geography
Wednesday, 21st of May, 5-6.15 pm - Click here to register.
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Upcoming Work Experience Events
- Manchester: Arm, Technology, Work Experience Day
This event is for students aged 16-21 interested in a career in Tech. Arm have various opportunities in Engineering (software, hardware) as well as Electronics. But if you also have a general curiosity about Arm, they also have people who work in Marketing, Business and other non-technical areas. Applicants are welcome no matter what subject you're studying!
Wednesday, 4th of June, 10 am - 3 pm - Click here to find out more.
- Manchester: Government Cyber Work Experience Day
This event is for Year 12 and 13 students interested in a career in STEM.
This event will provide insights into the breadth of roles and Early Careers programmes available with Government Intelligence Agencies, e.g. Cyber, Engineering, Analyst, Linguist, as well as business functions, e.g. HR, finance, etc.
Thursday, 19th of June, 10 am - 3 pm - Click here to find out more.
- Unifrog Virtual Work Experience Week
Unifrog's virtual work experience week is back! For students who missed out on in-person placements, or those who wish to further build their employability skills, it's a great way to connect with some top employers.
Each day will be a combination of live webinars and time for students to complete a real workplace task through their Courses tool. Students can choose to sign up for just one day, a few days, or the whole week!
Monday, 30th of June–Friday, 4th of July - Click here to find out more.
- National: Arm, Technology Work Virtual Work Experience Event
This event is for students aged 16-21 interested in a career in Tech. Arm have various opportunities in Engineering (software, hardware) as well as Electronics. But if you also have a general curiosity in Arm, they also have people who work in Marketing, Business and other non-technical areas. Applicants are welcome no matter what subject you're studying!
Tuesday, 1st of July at 10 am -1 pm - Click here to find out more.
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Upcoming University Open Days
University of Liverpool
- Friday, 20th of June
- Saturday, 21st of June
- Saturday, 20th of September
- Saturday, 11th of October
Click here to receive an alert when bookings are live.
University of Salford
Click here to register.
UCLAN Preston
Click here to register.
University of Chester
Click here to register.
Teeside University
Saturday, 21st of June
Click here to register.
Liverpool Hope University
Click here to register.
Bangor University
- Saturday, 5th of July
- Sunday, 17th of August
- Sunday, 12th of October
- Saturday, 1st of November
- Saturday, 22nd of November
Click here to register.
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Curious About Careers in Construction or Want to Learn Something New?
Come along to this fantastic free ‘Build Your Skills’ family fun day event - packed with activities for all ages!
Location: Newsham Adult Learning Centre, 83 Newsham Drive, L6 7UH.
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Word of the Week - Nefarious
Definition - Wicked, evil, or villainous.
From Latin: ne- "not" + fas "right, lawful, divinely spoken"
Usage - "People kept walking in and out of doors with nefarious purpose."
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Vaping – We would like to remind you that we do not allow students to bring items such as cigarettes, lighters, matches or e-cigarettes/ vapes into school.
Zero Tolerance of Abuse - The NST has a zero-tolerance approach to abusive language, violence, aggression or harassment towards employees, governors and volunteers.
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