University of Oxford Sixth-form prize in Medicine
The Oxford Trauma Sixth Form Prize in Medicine invites UK sixth form students from Oxfordshire state schools to design and present an idea for a clinical study in the field of musculoskeletal diseases (orthopaedics, rheumatology, or trauma). The two winners will join us for a week of Work Experience at the University of Oxford.
Task
We want YOU to design and present an idea for a clinical study in the field of musculoskeletal diseases (orthopaedics, rheumatology or trauma).
Create a three minute video explaining your proposed study, and why it could make a difference for clinicians or patients.
Your video should cover the following:
• Clinical Question — the specific problem or gap in knowledge you aim to address.
• Study Design — choose observational, data-based, or clinical trial; outline who you would include, the outcomes you would measure, and any ethical/practical considerations (e.g. consent, equity, bias).
• Potential Impact — explain how your study could inform clinical practice, patient outcomes, or health services.
Suggested Topics (these are examples only)
• Early MRI vs. standard imaging for suspected scaphoid fracture — does it speed safe return to activity? (pragmatic trial)
• Wearable sensors to reduce overuse injuries in adolescent athletes. (observational cohort)
• Predicting rheumatoid arthritis flares using routinely collected EHR data and simple clinical measures. (data-based study)
• Virtual physiotherapy versus in-person rehab after ACL reconstruction. (non-inferiority trial)
• Vitamin D supplementation to reduce stress fractures in first-year university athletes. (cluster trial)
Judging Criteria
Entries will be scored 1–5 in each category (maximum 20):
- Clarity of Explanation
- Structure & Coherence
- Understanding & Critical Thinking (including basic study design awareness)
- Communicative Effectiveness (pace, tone, use of visuals where appropriate)
Guidelines
Eligibility: UK sixth form students (Years 12–13), Oxfordshire state schools only.
Format: 3 minute video (MP4 preferred). Filming on a smartphone is fine.
The use of slides is acceptable, but the speaker must be visible at all times.
Technical tips: 720p–1080p; clear audio; steady framing; good lighting; keep file size reasonable (≤500 MB recommended).
File naming: Surname_Firstname_School.mp4
Include your full name and school name at the start of the video (this does not count towards the 3 mins)
Submission: Upload your video to YouTube as an unlisted video and send the link to communications@ndorms.ox.ac.uk using the subject line: Sixth form prize video 2025 (include student name and school).
Fair use of AI: You may use AI tools for brainstorming or proofreading notes, but the final content and delivery must be your own. You may NOT use AI generated video-content.
We will not be able to provide feedback on submissions but all applicants will be informed if they were successful or unsuccessful
Key Dates
Submission deadline: Monday 1 December 2025 (23:59 UK time)
Results announced: week commencing Monday 12 January 2026
Work experience placement: Tuesday 7 – Friday 10 April 2026
Prizes
• 2 × First Prizes — Oxford work experience placement (7–10 April 2025) and a University of Oxford Certificate
• 2 × Second Prizes — University of Oxford Certificate of Achievement
• Commendations — Certificates for notable entries
Please note, there is no provision for costs associated with attending the work-experience (travel or accommodation) but if this is a specific barrier to application please notify us.
Resources
Downloadable documents for students and judges:
• Student Submission Checklist
Any questions?
Please contact the NDORMS Communications Team.