The lecture explores how we can better understand, interpret, and live with uncertainty in our everyday decisions, using tools from probability and statistics. Through a series of real-world examples and philosophical theory, Professor Speigelhalter delivered an engaging lecture on how to embrace uncertainty and use probability to make informed choices in an unpredictable world.

Mr Cheuk, Economics Department

I was already familiar with Professor Spiegelhalter's work: he has written some wonderful popular books on statistics, and was regularly in the news during the Covid pandemic, bravely explaining the statistical modelling behind some of the government's difficult policymaking decisions. What I hadn't expected was how entertaining and indeed funny he would turn out to be. What a lovely evening!

Our thanks to Dartford Grammar School for hosting such an invigorating and thought-provoking session. (And now our students know who Mick Jagger is!)

Mr Male, Mathematics Department

I recently attended a talk by David Spiegelhalter, which explored ideas from his book The Art of Uncertainty. My favourite part was when he applied probability to a real-world scenario: competing on Total Wipeout. By analysing past contestants’ performances, he calculated that he would need to complete the course in under three minutes to qualify; a clever use of statistical reasoning in an everyday decision. I also found his reflections on the illusion of certainty particularly striking. He argued that while we often believe we live predictable lives, uncertainty plays a far greater role than we admit. This reminded me of how easily we overlook randomness and chance in daily decisions. The talk made me appreciate how probability isn’t just a mathematical concept, but a powerful tool for understanding and navigating life’s unpredictability and that embracing uncertainty can actually lead to better, more informed choices.

Mubarak Adelasoye, Year 12

On the 9th July, 20 of our Sixth Formers attended an Economics and Mathematics Seminar by Sir David Spiegelhalter OBE, at Dartford Grammar School for Boys. The highlight for me was his discussion of Bayesian Theory, where he delved into the discussions behind luck, chance, and the probability that certain events will take place; for example, flipping heads on a two-sided coin ten times in a row.  I would like to thank both Mr Male and Mrs Harris for providing this opportunity as well.

Elijah Akintola, Year 12