‘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’ comes from the Greek KYTOS, meaning a container or vessel. Originally used to describe objects such as jars or even the hull of a ship, in biology the term came to refer to the cell — the microscopic structure that contains and organises the organelles that sustain life.
KYTOS borrows this idea. Just as a cell provides the structure that holds the machinery of life, the KYTOS programme provides a framework for students to be curious learners, to develop skills and explore the biological world beyond the classroom. Educational theorist Ewell (1997) argued that learners themselves are not simply ‘receptacles’ of knowledge. Instead, meaningful learning happens when students actively engage with ideas and build understanding for themselves.
Through KYTOS, students can develop their practical skills in the popular Dissection Club, investigate the science of crime in the dedicated Forensics Club or delve deeper into the world of genetics as part of our Genetics Society. The programme also includes monthly A–Z biology quizzes, an annual photography competition, weekly enrichment sessions exploring current scientific news, and themed trips such as visits to London’s Old Operating Theatre and Hunterian Museum.
Students are also encouraged to take part in our own prestigious essay competition, the KYTOS Award for Academic Writing endorsed by The Linnean Society of London – the oldest biological society in the world. For those considering medical or healthcare careers, MED:SEM provides a series of specialist seminars exploring relevant topics and pathways, whilst students have the ability to record their very own podcast, hosted on our KYTOS Biology Podcast Channel; the channel is currently streamed in over 130 countries worldwide, with official sponsorship from Curriculum Press, producers of global education resources for over 25 years. Furthermore, we are proud to welcome experts from across all scientific disciplines to give talks and offer expert advice as part of our Guest Speaker Programme.
The KYTOS website acts as the hub for all of these activities. It hosts resources, extension materials, exam practice and enrichment opportunities, supporting the Trust’s core values of curiosity, independence and academic inquiry. Above all, KYTOS aims to encourage students to explore biology with enthusiasm, depth and confidence.
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."