Parents and teachers enjoyed an evening of academic excellence at this year’s Bedford School Independent Project (BSIP) presentation evening when six Lower Sixth Formers competed for the prestigious BSIP presentation prize. The boys, who have been working on their projects for six months, each spoke for fifteen minutes on their research topic before taking questions from a panel of adjudicators and the assembled audience.
The BSIP, which is now in its seventh year at Bedford School, is a body of work encompassing various forms of academic extension on an area of personal interest to the boys. All Lower Sixth A-Level boys are required to produce a BSIP and selected boys are then invited to present their project.
Presentations covered a range of subjects and the boys acquitted themselves admirably – each presentation being delivered to an exceptionally high standard. The diversity of subject matter was testament to the boys’ academic curiosity and abilities of independent inquiry, which made for an informative and thought-provoking evening.
Boys presenting their projects were:
Robert Parrish (winner) who won the presentation award for his project ‘Why are investors so interested in the art world?’. Adjudicators awarded Robert first place for the range and depth of his research, and insightful arguments. Mr Sam Baldock, Deputy Head (Academic) was one of the adjudicators, and commented, “Robert presented his case with a clear rationale and really engaged with the audience, demonstrating strong story-telling techniques. We were particularly impressed by his proactive approach to first-hand research, including interviewing a number of leading gallery owners.”
Robert explained, “I was really surprised to win especially as I am not very confident at presenting. I was happy with my presentation in the end, and I am glad I decided to start my project again at Christmas as I wasn’t that happy with my first attempt. It was worth persevering.”
Murray Silk (runner up) delivered a well-synthesised presentation on ‘What are the limitations of Roman historiography and how does this affect its reliability?’, which included detailed engagement with original texts and some astute links to contemporary historiography.
James Wootton Evans engaged and informed the audience with a wide-ranging and persuasive exploration of ‘How does Formula One influence the world around us?’, which contained some genuine surprises. Max Pearson’s reflective and personal discussion on ‘Why does the modern world need literary critics?’, evidenced great intellectual acumen and sustained enquiry. Ben Edwards posed ‘Will the use of artificial intelligence benefit transportation in the future?’ in a visually striking presentation with intelligent discussion of economic, environmental and ethical considerations.
Tom Hayward debated ‘To what extent does a codified constitution help or hinder liberty?’ in a very well-articulated presentation, with impressive illustrative examples and careful evaluation of his academic sources.
Tom told us, “I chose this topic as it complemented nicely with my A-Level studies in History and Economics. I found that the whole process helped improve my independent research skills and has provided me with a strong foundation to start my EPQ.”
Overall, the adjudicators commented on the ambition and range of the boys’ work, the level of engagement shown with the research process, the confident way the material was delivered, and, in overall terms, the tremendous degree of intellectual curiosity, analytical focus and critical reflection shown.
The winner of the overall ‘Best Project’ will be notified next week and announced at Prize Giving in July.