‘It seems to me that the natural world is the greatest source of excitement; the greatest source of visual beauty; the greatest source of intellectual interest. It is the greatest source of so much in life that makes life worth living.’
Sir David Attenborough
The word ‘cyto’ is derived from the Greek word KYTOS, which refers to a container, or receptacle to be filled – the Farnborough Sixth Biology Enrichment Programme is designed to be this receptacle; an ever-changing and constantly updated resource that students can utilise to enrich their learning, and deepen their understanding of the biological world. It was Ewell (1997) who suggested that the learners themselves are not 'receptacles' of knowledge, but rather they create their own learning actively and uniquely.
KYTOS offers unparalleled opportunities to explore the subject beyond the classroom. Students can develop their surgical skills in the Dissection Club, enhance the school environment in the Conservation Club and delve deeper into the fascinating world of forensic science and criminal investigation in the hugely popular Forensics Club. They can participate in monthly A-Z biology quizzes, annual photography competitions, weekly enrichment sessions looking at topical news stories, and themed trips (including the Old Operating Theatre and Hunterian Museum, London). We also encourage students to enter the ‘Rosalind Franklin Prize for Academic Writing’, which is endorsed by the Rosalind Franklin Society, New York. MED:SEM is a programme of dedicated seminars covering a range of topics for those pursuing medical-related careers. Recent additions to the programme include the KYTOS Biology Podcasts (streamed in over 130 countries) and the Genetics Society.
The KYTOS website helps to embed the Trust's core values – it is these on which our Biology teaching is based, and it is through independent study and inquiry of mind that KYTOS aims to enrich this learning experience.
Mr Rob Isaacs
Senior Curriculum Manager - Biology
A personal message from Professor Dame
Sue Black, Forensic Anthropologist
The KYTOS Enrichment Programme
"What a true beacon KYTOS is for engagement with science. It is so vital that we attract more girls especially into science and ensure that the environment and opportunities remain maximised, so that they can progress unhindered all the way to the top of their chosen profession.
Throughout my career I have been blessed with the most altruistic of mentors and the most important was my biology teacher, Dr Fraser, who taught me to question, to be curious and to believe in myself."
A hand written letter from Sir David Attenborough to Rob Isaacs. It is a great honour to receive a commendation for the 'invaluable work', inspiring the next generation of Biologists through KYTOS.
“I found my love of science in the laboratory at the age of 14, and I just wonder what took me so long. Biology is everywhere you look, wonderful, strange, and inspiring. Sometimes people think that understanding will take away the world’s magic, but it’s the opposite — the more you know, the more you appreciate the clever and beautiful workings of life. I want to extend my warm wishes to all of you in your journey of discovery in science."