Every year, the MPhil in Public Policy issues two awards to outstanding students for performance across the entire programme, and on the Independent Research Paper. Below are the testimonials from the 2025 winners:
HIGHEST OVERALL AVERAGE PRIZE - Barbara Waldner
Taking time out of work to return to university was a big decision, but one I’m so glad I made. I wanted to learn, meet new people, and make the most of what Cambridge has to offer. It feels incredibly rewarding to have the year’s work recognised with the Highest Overall Average Prize.
The MPP has reignited my passion for public policy. I’ve found myself drawn to areas I hadn’t expected, like economic and industrial policy, and came to appreciate how connected they are with social policy issues.
But more than anything, it’s the people I’ll remember: a brilliant cohort, supportive college friends, and faculty who challenged and encouraged us in equal measure. Special thanks to my supervisor, Dr Nina Jörden, for her guidance and insight, and to my family, friends and partner for cheering me on through every side quest.
I’m heading back with new knowledge, fresh energy, and a network of people I feel very lucky to have met.
HIGHEST INDEPENDENT RESEARCH PAPER PRIZE - Ellie Wright
My independent research paper explored how a public health approach can support early language development and improve the early identification of speech, language and communication needs. Communication is foundational to wellbeing, learning and life chances, and those who struggle to talk by five are significantly more likely to face challenges in education, employment and mental health, throughout their lifecourse. This research emerged from the concern that too many children with language needs go unidentified and unsupported. In some areas of socioeconomic deprivation, children face a double burden: rising need coupled with entrenched disadvantage. The existence of a social gradient in language abilities reinforces broader inequalities, with disparities evident before children begin school. I drew on national and local data, interviews with educators, clinicians, and policymakers, and case studies of public health strategies adopted. A central insight was the importance of coordinated, preventative action rooted in ecological systems theory, supporting children through families, communities, and services working together.
I am deeply honoured to receive the Highest Independent Research Paper Prize for the MPhil in Public Policy. I am especially grateful to my supervisor, Professor Dennis Grube, whose thoughtful guidance has been invaluable throughout this process. I feel incredibly fortunate to have had his support across the MPP and will carry his teaching forward through my career.
At its heart, this research is about ensuring no child is held back by the circumstances they are born into or the needs they face. I hope it plays a small part in helping all children grow up with the support they deserve - to be understood, included, and able to flourish.