Langton Extended Curriculum – Wednesday afternoon research projects

As part of our timetabled Langton Extended Curriculum, these research projects provide students with exceptional opportunities to go beyond traditional classroom learning and engage in authentic, inquiry-driven, experiences. Each project is designed to foster transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, creativity, and effective communication – skills that are highly valued in higher education and the workplace.

Through these initiatives, students develop confidence in public speaking, oracy, collaborative working, and independent research, while gaining practical experience in networking and professional engagement. Many projects involve partnerships with leading academics, universities, and external organisations, enabling students to work alongside experts in fields ranging from environmental science and philosophy to comedy, art history, and advanced materials modelling. This exposure not only enriches their academic profile but also helps them build connections that can support future aspirations.

By participating in these projects, students learn to organise and present ideas, analyse complex issues, and apply knowledge in real-world contexts – whether through designing museum experiences, pitching innovations for global sustainability, or contributing to cutting-edge research. These experiences empower students to make meaningful contributions to society and prepare them for success in an increasingly interconnected and competitive world.

Details of the projects running the academic year 2025-26 are included below.

 

The Comedy Project

Overview

The Comedy Project introduces students to the interdisciplinary study of humour, exploring its psychological, cultural, and social dimensions.

Research Focus and Activities

Students analyse the mechanics of comedic performance, investigate the historical evolution of stand-up comedy, and develop original material for live delivery if they choose. The project emphasises critical thinking, argument construction, and creativity, alongside practical skills in public speaking and performance.

Partnerships and Impact

Delivered in collaboration with the University of Kent’s renowned Stand-Up Comedy programme, this initiative enhances students’ confidence, communication skills, and cultural awareness. It also promotes wellbeing by examining comedy’s role in stress reduction and social connection.

 

TED-Ed Student Talks

Overview

This project equips students with advanced communication skills through the globally recognised TED-Ed framework.

Research Focus and Activities

Students learn to transform an idea into a compelling talk, developing skills in research, structure, and delivery. Each participant creates and records a presentation for publication on the TED-Ed platform, fostering global engagement and digital literacy.

Partnerships and Impact

The programme cultivates confidence, empathy, and global awareness, preparing students for leadership roles and higher education interviews.

 

Past and Present: Museums in the Digital Age

Overview

This project explores the evolving role of museums in the 21st century, combining historical inquiry with digital innovation.

Research Focus and Activities

Students conduct archival research, design surveys, and develop interpretative resources for younger audiences. The project culminates in planning and leading an educational museum trip for Year 7 students.

Partnerships and Impact

Working with Canterbury Museums and English Heritage, students gain experience in cultural heritage management and public engagement. Previous outputs include digital content featured on museum websites and presentations at the Langton Research Festival.

 

Project Earth

Overview

Project Earth is a global sustainability initiative, empowering students to design innovative solutions to environmental challenges.

Research Focus and Activities

Students engage in research across three domains: technological innovation, social transformation, and cultural exchange. Projects range from engineering prototypes to behavioural change strategies and creative storytelling.

Partnerships and Impact

Supported by the Earthshot Prize and hosted at the Royal Institution, students present their work at the “Pitch for the Planet” showcase to investors, academics, and industry leaders. Previous innovations include air quality monitors, biodiversity enhancement strategies, and sustainable lifestyle interventions.

 

Langton Language Centre

Overview

This research strand investigates the interplay between language, culture, and cognition, offering students opportunities to explore sociolinguistics and applied linguistics.

Research Focus and Activities

Projects include studies on language and dementia, cultural identity, and linguistic evolution. Students develop advanced referencing techniques and critical analysis skills, preparing for university-level research.

Partnerships and Impact

Sessions with Dr David Hornsby and collaborations with external language organisations enrich the academic experience.

 

Art History

Overview

This project introduces students to the critical study of visual culture, from prehistoric art to contemporary movements.

Research Focus and Activities

Students investigate major artistic periods, engage in visual analysis, and curate mini-exhibitions. Independent research projects allow exploration of themes such as feminist art, modernism and street art.

Partnerships and Impact

The programme develops analytical and presentation skills, supporting progression into careers in museums, publishing, and creative industries.

 

The Orchard Project

Overview

The Orchard Project integrates practical conservation with empirical research on biodiversity and wellbeing.

Research Focus and Activities

Students undertake habitat management tasks, deploy trail cameras, and analyse ecological data. A core study examines the psychological benefits of natural environments, using physiological and self-report measures.

Partnerships and Impact

Collaboration with Dr Turner (University of Cambridge) provides academic depth. The project has received the Green School Award for Nature Conservation, affirming its impact on sustainability education.

 

Philosophy Project

Overview

This project introduces students to foundational philosophical concepts and contemporary debates.

Research Focus and Activities

Students explore epistemology, ethics, and political philosophy, producing outputs such as podcasts, articles, and educational resources.

Partnerships and Impact

Supported by the University of Kent and King’s School Canterbury, the project fosters critical thinking and independent inquiry.

 

Modelling Hypervelocity Impacts of Space Dust on Shielding

Overview

This advanced research project investigates materials modelling in aerospace engineering.

Research Focus and Activities

Students use ANSYS software to simulate shielding performance under extreme conditions, comparing results with experimental data from the University of Kent’s Impact Lab.

Partnerships and Impact

Participants present findings at the Langton Research Festival, IRIS Conference and university seminars, with opportunities for publication in academic journals.

 

Unlocking the Mind

Overview

This psychology-based project examines cognitive processes and behavioural patterns through student-led research.

Research Focus and Activities

Students design and conduct studies on personality, memory, and gender differences, applying statistical analysis to interpret findings.

Partnerships and Impact

The project enhances understanding of psychological theory and research methodology, supporting progression into psychology and related fields.

 

SciTex: Sustainable Textiles Research

Overview

SciTex addresses sustainability in fashion and textiles through scientific and creative research.

Research Focus and Activities

Students investigate eco-friendly dyeing techniques, biomaterial development, and experimental approaches such as bacterial fabric growth and smart textiles. They also explore avant-garde concepts like Horti Couture, integrating living plants into garment design.

Partnerships and Impact

Collaboration with the University for the Creative Arts provides access to specialist equipment and academic expertise. SciTex exemplifies interdisciplinary learning, blending science and design to tackle global sustainability challenges.