Plagues and people in the modern world

Matravers School sixth form welcomed special guest speaker, Sir Roy Anderson, professor of epidemiology and former chief scientific advisor, MoD, to their “distinguished speakers programme”on Friday 9th February. He gave an engaging and informative presentation on ‘Plagues and People in the Modern World.’

Matravers’ sixth form reports, “Sir Roy answered questions about his fascinating work which helps to improve our understanding of tropical diseases and epidemics. The students were taken on an informative journey through the evolution of human pathogens, the impact modern life has on the spread of disease, along with case studies including SARS, influenza, Ebola and the Zika virus.

“Sir Roy answered many questions from the science students, explaining more details about how diseases develop and are transmitted between species.”

Ian Browning, director of post-16 at Matravers School said, “Hosting a visit from a world-leading expert  is a fantastic opportunity for our students, who benefit from such opportunities, not only through the information which is presented, but also through having their horizons broadened.

“This was a hugely valuable experience for the students involved, many of whom were inspired by Sir Roy’s visit.”

Sir Roy Anderson is the latest in a growing line of influential speakers to visit Matravers School sixth form, which has included General Sir Peter Wall, Professor Richard Oreffo, Lord Sharman, Lord Rosser, Professor Welham, Sir Geoffrey Owen and John Fingleton.

Matravers  School sixth form is currently in the process of recruiting students for the next academic year.  Potential applicants should contact the school as soon as possible.