Bulmershe A-Level Biologists Experience Real-World Genetics

The Bulmershe School is committed to providing enriching, extra-curricular learning opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom, giving our students a genuine taste of university life and potential careers. This week our Year 13 A-Level Biology students spent an inspiring and highly practical day at the University of Oxford’s Natural History Museum Labs.

The aim of the trip, organised by Mrs. Nath and Mr. Morden, was to bring complex genetic concepts to life through hands-on laboratory techniques - the exact kind of work students would encounter in a Biological Sciences degree or a professional research environment. This experience is part of The Bulmershe School's broader strategy to support students' Sixth Form progression to top universities, including Oxbridge and Russell Group institutions, and competitive higher apprenticeships.

From Taste Test to DNA Fingerprint

The day kicked off with a fun and engaging practical activity: a taste test using a specific chemical to determine which students could detect a bitter taste. This seemingly simple test introduced the concept of genetic variation and was amusingly followed by students discovering who was a "mutant" for that specific receptor.

The real science began immediately after. Students transitioned into cutting-edge lab work, using their own DNA samples to confirm the correlation between their taste experience and their genetic makeup. They performed a series of core molecular biology techniques:

• DNA Extraction: Carefully isolating their own genetic material.
• PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction): Amplifying the specific gene responsible for the bitter taste receptor, preparing it for analysis.
• Gel Electrophoresis: Creating a visual DNA fingerprint to identify any genetic mutations.

This sequence of events provided a powerful, visceral confirmation of the complex relationship between genotype and phenotype: how our genes physically manifest in our traits. 

Inspiring Career Pathways and University Research

Beyond the lab benches, the students benefited from a rich academic environment. They explored the museum's extensive exhibits, engaging in focused discussions on convergent evolution and hominid skulls to deepen their understanding of human evolution.

A highlight of the day was hearing from two Biology PhD students, who shared insights into their cutting-edge research. This session provided our Year 13s with an invaluable perspective on the diverse and rewarding careers available in Biology, from genetics and research to ecology and medicine.

At The Bulmershe School, we believe these types of trips are vital. They not only consolidate classroom learning but also cultivate confidence, critical thinking and a genuine passion for the subject. If you are looking for a secondary school or a Sixth Form that prioritises academic excellence through real-world application, discover The Bulmershe School. We are dedicated to ensuring our students achieve the success they deserve and progress to their chosen, outstanding destinations.

To learn more about our A-Level subject offerings and student opportunities, please explore our Sixth Form Pages