On Wednesday, February 8, Professor Neil Murphy delivered a talk concerning Tudor Espionage to the Island’s Historical Association branch.

Discussing espionage during Henry VIII’s reign, it aligned with several A-level history courses, including those from the Island VI Form and Christ the King College. This meant that students from both sixth forms were present. 

Olivia Wilkinson, a Year 13 history student at Christ the King, said: “I enjoyed the lecture as it enhanced my knowledge on the Tudor monarchy and the great depth of reform that they faced, building on the knowledge I have attained during my A-Levels.”

Moreover, on Tuesday, January 9, they invited Year 12 and 13 students to an event at Newport Parish Hall, which focused on furthering historical education and how studying history can be applied to jobs, careers and interests. 

They also encouraged young people to join their activities, including their lectures, which are free for students (in-person and via Zoom).

The free event consisted of undergraduate history students, graduates and professionals working in careers outside of education in the history/heritage sector, who offered guidance to A-level history students.

Those who attended listened and asked questions about furthering historical study and discovering more about the IW Historical Association. 

Although the expertise varied, the experts recommended volunteering countless times, encouraging young people to contribute to their local communities. 

Isaac Lethbridge, a second year history student at Oxford University, emphasised the support he received from the Historical Association: “It was an amazing source of support when I was applying for university. Their bursary scheme enabled me to invest in a laptop and books, which helped me at university. Beyond the financial support, the lectures were so interesting, encouraging me to ‘think like a historian.’ 

Their next lecture is from Dr Paul Bingham on Wednesday, March 6, at 7.30 pm at Riverside Community Action Centre about The Entry of Women Into the Medical Profession.