Government Officials Attend M5 Personal Project Showcase
February 5, 2026 — M5 students at Somersfield Academy presented the culmination of a year of independent learning on February 5, 2026, as part of the school’s Personal Project Exhibition. The opening reception provided an opportunity for students to articulate their learning, respond to questions, and share work shaped by topics of personal significance.
Each project told a different story. Students explained their journey and reflected on the challenges and discoveries that defined their learning. The diversity of work on display highlighted individual interests alongside the independence, research-skills, and critical thinking developed over the course of the year.
Topics ranged from social issues and creative expression to technical builds and hands-on engineering. Lola Reape explored elder care in Bermuda, drawing on conversations with nursing home residents to better understand their daily experiences. “I wanted to show that older people have meaningful lives, feelings, and needs, and that they deserve compassion, respect, and moments of joy,” she explained, describing a project inspired by her close relationship with her grandparents and her desire to support the community.
For Yemaya Iris, the Personal Project became a deeply reflective creative process. Through writing a poetry collection, she challenged herself to share work that felt raw and personal. “This project taught me to be vulnerable and to express myself through poetry,” she said. “It allowed for deep academic and emotional growth.”
Somersfield Academy was also honoured to welcome esteemed guests including Tinee Furbert, Minister of Youth, Social Development and Seniors; Kim R. Wilkerson, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice; Andrew Pettit, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Home Affairs; David Roberts, Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Justice; Jache Adams, Minister of Public Works and Environment; Christopher Famous, MP for Devonshire East; and Owen Darrell, Minister of Tourism, Transport, Culture and Sport. Their presence and thoughtful feedback offered students valuable real-world perspectives and professional insight.
Other projects took shape through design and making. Axel Wideman combined his interest in 20th-century technology and gaming culture by building a record player inspired by a Minecraft jukebox. While time constraints required adjustments along the way, he reflected on developing new skills in carpentry and digital fabrication, including the use of the school’s laser cutter.
Micah Doran’s project, BBM: Boat by Micah, reflected his connection to the water and interest in hands-on construction. “I wanted to create something meaningful that I could be proud of,” he shared. Through designing and building a functional boat, Micah deepened his understanding of buoyancy and stability while developing patience, responsibility, and confidence.
Together, all the student projects highlight the independence, perseverance, and student voice at the centre of the M5 Personal Project experience.