Sixth form lectures take place once a month on three occasions in the autumn term and two or three in the spring. The speakers come from a wide variety of backgrounds such as the arts, media, science and politics. Many have a fascinating and inspirational story to tell. Although these talks are not intended to be careers-specific they can often provide the students with an insight into the world of work. The main aim, however, is to broaden the girls’ horizons. The girls also have an opportunity to develop their public speaking skills by making an introduction or delivering a vote of thanks. They are also encouraged to accept an invitation to join the speaker for dinner afterwards - we host a semi-formal buffet dinner to enable a few staff members and girls to meet the guest speaker under more relaxed conditions. The girls thoroughly enjoy this social occasion and often make a valuable contact through the guest speaker.

The lectures take place in the OQ lecture theatre on a Tuesday evening for an hour starting at 5 45 pm. Attendance is compulsory for all girls and they are expected not to make any other commitments during that time. Colleagues are always welcome to attend the lectures which are published termly in the school calendar.

Our 2007-8 programme is as follows:

4 October - Bill Pirie - “Avoid that knock on the Door”

6 November - Nicola Ramsden - “ Russia - Oligarchs and Orphans”

4 December - Helen Hoyle - “Extreme Everest”

5 February - Mellie Buse OQ - Writer and Broadcaster (Children’s TV)

4 March - Sally Kettle - Theatre and Visual Practice graduate and rower - part of the first mother and daughter team to row across the Atlantic Ocean, raising over £1 million for charity