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Sixth-former Tanush Gupta has won first prize in a prestigious European competition for his video on genetic diversity.

His name was announced in front of more than 5,000 international scientists and doctors at the European Human Genetics Conference in Milan.

The prize from the European Society of Human Genetics (ESHG) in its 17th annual European DNA Day Video Contest, includes €400 for Tanush and €1,000 for the School.

Head of Biology Gillian Ridge said: “This is really quite a considerable achievement: Tanush’s video was meticulously put together and he worked on it independently. Many congratulations to him on this success.”

Pupils from 26 European countries submitted 31 videos in video contest and 298 essays in the parallel essay competition this year.

The task set for the entrants was: Please, discuss the importance of understanding genetic diversity for health and disease. Support your example with specific DNA variants and genes.

Tanush submitted a five-minute video entitled Genes Across the Globe: Why Genetic Diversity Matters that was amply illustrated throughout with colour drawings and simple animations.

In the video he highlights the current focus of genetic medical research being on European populations, with deleterious consequences for people of other ethnicities: “If genetic research is not inclusive, certain populations suffer from undetected risks and ineffective medical interventions,” he says.

Tanush concludes: “Genetics isn’t just about understanding the past, it’s about shaping the future of medicine. The more inclusive our research, the better our ability to predict, prevent, and treat diseases for everyone.

“So next time you hear about a groundbreaking genetic discovery, ask yourself: ‘Who does this benefit, and who’s being left behind?’ Because science should serve all of humanity, not just a select few.”

The entries were evaluated by 45 experts in the field, who selected three winners in each category, while also awarding 11 honourable mentions over both competition categories.

In their prize citation, DNA Day Co-ordinator Dr Christophe Cordier, ESHG President Professor William Newman and ESHG Education Committee Chair Professor Inga Prokopenko told Tanush: “Your video…has impressed the members of the jury based on its originality, its scientific content, and the fact that you expressed so clearly the benefits and consequences for science and society.

“We do hope that your interest in genetics and DNA will continue to grow over the years and that you will continue to follow the developments in the field, which promise to become more and more spectacular.”

• You can watch Tanush’s video here.

The shadow of the 47th president of the USA looms large over the latest edition of The Econobethan – QE’s pupil-run Economics journal.

Under the overall theme of International Relations, the 24th edition of the publication includes a special front section headed Has Trump damaged the dollar? which looks at the impact of tariffs and at the dollar’s role as the world’s reserve currency.

Articles in the main body of The Econobethan mostly home in on specific nations, examining, for example, the economic cost of India and Pakistan’s damaged relations, or how recent problems have harmed the reputation of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Citing the maxim of US founding father Benjamin Franklin that ‘no nation was ever ruined by trade’, Economics teacher and Enrichment tutor Celia Wallace said:  “This is a rich and thought-provoking edition, offering a range of perspectives on how nations interact and the economic outcomes of those interactions.”

The 50-page edition was overseen by the Year 12 editorial team of Zain Ahmed, Shourya Garg, Adithya Raghuraman and Shuban Singh.

In their introduction, they write: “The first section of the edition focuses on one of the more recent, prevalent points of contention in international relations debates…

“The articles in this section argue for and against Trump’s international policy, specifically focusing on its effect on the dollar.”

Among the writers here is Year 11 GCSE economist Vu-Lam Le-Nguyen, whose piece is entitled: The Method Behind the Madman Theory: how President Trump’s second-term agenda has affected the US dollar. He begins by explaining that the Madman Theory, also known as the Unpredictability Doctrine, is not without precedent, having reportedly been adopted by President Nixon, too. After setting out some of Donald Trump’s decisions, and his ‘promises of bold economic growth’ occurring at the same time as a $2.8 trillion jump in national debt, Vu-Lam says he hopes to ‘shed light on the rationale behind this apparent madness’.

Regarding the main section, the editorial adds: “Articles focus on the development of relationships, including the formation of the UN and the UK’s international status as both an empire and a leader of diplomacy.

“They also consider the economic vulnerability of nations when relations falter, such as the breakdown of trade blocs and the effects on landlocked nations. This edition helps to show the complexities of international relations as well as the domino-like knock-on effects of unsuitable international policy.”

Contributors come from Years 9–11. Many illustrate their articles with tables and graphs.

Others, such as Year 11 GCSE economist Aayush Shukla, in his piece on China’s economic history (From Footprints to Footing: The Evolution of China), or his fellow Year 11 pupil, Noah Morley, on his historical exploration of Japan’s relationship with Europe (Japan’s Evolving Relationship with Europe), use photographs or reproductions of paintings.

• The Econobethan may be read here.

Nine pupils won achievement awards for accomplishments in areas ranging from sport to robotics, while teacher Xiangming Xu took a Leader Award both for his dedication in the classroom and for his support of co-curricular activities.

The awards, which were given by the Jack Petchey Foundation, were given following a selection process open to all QE pupils.

Headmaster Neil Enright said: “My congratulations go to the boys and to Xiangming – ten very worthy winners. The award citations reveal strong leadership and great dedication. Furthermore, they reflect the true breadth of the QE experience, which encompasses both academic excellence and our extensive QE Flourish programme.”

The Jack Petchey Achievement Awards recognise outstanding young people aged 11–25 across London and Essex; Leader Awards are given for adults who show exemplary dedication at schools and youth organisations.

The selection process gave QE pupils the opportunity to cast votes: all boys could vote for one pupil and one staff member on two occasions in successive terms.

An awards ceremony took place at the Arts Depot in Barnet.

Enrichment tutor and Geography teacher Staycie Domzalski said: “It was a lovely opportunity to recognise and celebrate the nine students’ and Mr Xu’s achievements.”

Each pupil award winner received a certificate, pin badge and a book written by Sir Jack Petchey – a businessman and philanthropist who died last year at the age of 98. They also received a £300 grant for the School, to spend at their own discretion. Similarly, Mr Xu received a £1,000 grant for the School.

The boys chose to spend their grants on equipment including: rugby training tops; VEX robotics hardware; Eton Fives gloves; medical book and DVDs; and badminton shuttlecocks.

Science teacher and form tutor Mr Xu, pictured top, showed “exceptional dedication to both academic and extracurricular life at QE” according to his citation. “…He consistently goes above and beyond –making lessons engaging, helping pupils grasp challenging concepts, and inspiring confidence. He has given up numerous weekends to support students in competitions such as the UKSDC [UK Space Design Competition] and has played a vital role in organising and mentoring teams. His kindness, empathy, and unwavering support make him a true role model, respected not just for his teaching, but for the care and encouragement he shows to every pupil.”

The pupils’ citations were as follows:

Year 10
Soham Bhatnagar: Soham is an exceptional student who consistently leads by example through his dedication, kindness, and strong work ethic. As A team rugby captain and form leader, he inspires others with his resilience, commitment to academics, and support for younger students—both in class and on the coach. Whether mentoring in the gym, attending extra clinics, or simply being a positive presence, Soham embodies the values of leadership, encouragement, and self-improvement, making him a truly deserving candidate for the Jack Petchey Award.

Arhan Panjwani: Arhan is a dedicated and inspiring student whose long-standing commitment to VEX robotics has empowered numerous younger teams through mentorship and support. His selfless guidance, leadership, and contributions across robotics, music, and school clubs make him a true role model in the QE community.

Ayaan Bhat: Ayaan is an exceptional role model whose maturity, kindness, and dedication to helping others shine through in every aspect of school life. As a peer mentor, rugby leader, and active contributor in class and form time, he consistently supports younger students, demonstrates resilience, and inspires those around him with his determination and humility.

Year 11
Jack Tan: Jack is an outstanding role model whose dedication to Eton Fives and support for younger students has made a lasting impact. As a committed captain and mentor, he consistently gives up his time to coach, inspire, and guide others – both on and off the court. His kindness, leadership, and willingness to help with both sport and academics make him a truly deserving recipient of the Jack Petchey Award.

Year 12
Viyath Wanninayaka: Viyath has shown exceptional leadership and generosity by running a challenging and engaging maths club that inspires younger students and stretches their thinking. He is not only highly knowledgeable and hardworking, but also kind, supportive, and always willing to help others – whether it’s giving academic advice or helping classmates with subjects like Latin, Maths, and Science.

Suhaas Sabbella: For being an outstanding leader of the medical ethics club, dedicating significant effort to expanding students’ knowledge beyond the curriculum and enhancing their understanding of medical dilemmas.

Aadam Aslam: For his support during rugby training sessions, both at lunchtime and after school, and for guiding younger students with their GCSE options. Many students find him to be a reliable confidant when it comes to school-related matters.

Year 13
Rayat Ferdous: This student has shown outstanding dedication to the Islamic Society through his consistent leadership in organising daily and Friday prayers, ensuring a respectful and well-maintained space for all students. He gives up his own time every day to set up and restore prayer rooms, supports charitable efforts, and acts as a role model and mentor for younger students. His commitment, humility, and reliability make him a highly deserving recipient of the Jack Petchey Award.

Shaurya Madan: For being an excellent role model and prefect, consistently exhibiting exemplary behaviour and attitude. Many students look up to him and aspire to learn how to improve themselves by following his example.

Year 13’s Muhammad Shah has won The Big Bang UK Young Technologist of the Year title for 2025.

His winning project, Icarus, is a decentralised telecommunication system designed for low-cost and effective emergency communications in remote areas: it was inspired by his love of the outdoors and of trekking.

Muhammad was one of 11 QE pupils to reach the finals of The Big Bang Competition.

Mark Wood, Social Sustainability Lead at sponsor Siemens GB&I, said: “Muhammad stood out with his decentralised communication system, which avoids reliance on cellular or satellite networks and has great opportunities for search and rescue, leisure and other business uses.

“Muhammad demonstrated independent learning and great communication and presentation skills and is a worthy winner of the prize!”

The Big Bang Competition, run by the EngineeringUK charity,  is open to young people in the UK aged 11-18 who are in state-funded education, are home-educated or who enter as part of a community group.

The Big Bang UK Young Technologist of the Year award recognises innovation in digital and sustainable technology. It highlights the importance of technology in various sectors, including search and rescue, leisure, and business.

Muhammad describes himself as an aspiring engineer who enjoys 3D printing, CAD modelling, printed circuit board (PCB) design and other electronics.

His project was inspired by the communication difficulties people experience in remote areas, and particularly by the need for better communication when people out trekking get into difficulty. Its decentralised approach avoids reliance on cellular or satellite networks.

With Muhammad unable to attend the Big Bang Fair at Birmingham’s NEC because of an A-level examination, the prize was instead presented at the School’s Technology Design Showcase by EngineeringUK’s Director of Communications, Beth Elgood, and Siemens’ General Manager and UK Country Lead, Hannah Winstanley. The two also agreed to serve on the judging panel at the QE event.

Tech spec: how Muhammad solved the problem

Icarus uses a custom Meshtastic PCB based on ESP32-S3 N8R8, L76K GPS and LoRa RA-01SH, designed to be fully assembled by the online PCB service provider, JLCPCB.

Meshtastic is a decentralised, off-grid network that lets users send and receive messages using affordable, low-power devices. Icarus also makes use of LoRa, a long-range radio protocol, which is widely accessible in most regions without the need for additional licences or certifications (unlike HAM radio). These radios are designed to rebroadcast messages they receive, forming a network. This setup ensures that every group member, including those at the furthest distance, can receive messages.

Three Year 12 pupils successfully hosted what is believed to have been QE’s first-ever Medicine conference.

The one-day event gave pupils the chance to hear from leading doctors across a range of specialisms – several of whom are involved in medical research – and to talk to current medical students.

In 2024, a total of 38 QE leavers secured university places to read Medicine.

Featuring talks and networking opportunities, the conference, called MedConnect 2025, was organised by Soham Kale, Surya Senthilkumar and Sharvesh Sudhagar, with support from Head of Year 12 Akhil Gohil and other staff.

“We designed this networking event to give our future medics a deeper and wider understanding of what medicine and its specialties truly involve – beyond the textbook,” said Soham.

“This was achieved through a series of insightful talks delivered by some of the most inspiring doctors and medical students we could have asked for, followed by a vibrant networking session in our atrium.”

Among the guests was Old Elizabethan Dr Akash Gandhi (2005–2012), a GP and founder of TheUKCATPeople, which coaches young people to help them gain places at UK medical, dental and veterinary schools.

The other guests and speakers at the conference, which was based in the Friends’ Recital Hall, were:

• Dr Mark Kristiansen – Head of Genomics (UCL)
• Dr Giulio Anichini – Neurosurgeon (Imperial College London)
• Dr Thendral Murugesan – Consultant gastroenterologist (Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust)
• Dr Jayanta Banerjee – Neonatal consultant (St Mary’s Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust)
• Dr Arangan Kirubakaran – Neonatal registrar (St Mary’s Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust)
• Gayathri Giritharan – Third-year medical student (Imperial College London)
• Vanathi Pugalendhi – Third-year medical student (Imperial College London).

Soham added: “Organising and hosting this event was a huge learning experience. From coordinating speakers and logistics to dealing with last-moment changes under pressure, it has pushed me to grow as both a team-player and a communicator. It also reaffirmed my passion for Medicine – not just as a career, but as a field built on human connection and constant learning.”

He thanked the speakers and the QE staff who supported the trio behind the conference, especially Mr Gohil: “His unwavering support and guidance made this entire event possible. Throughout this process, you constantly challenged us to reflect, question and develop – helping us grow not only in our leadership but also as people.”

Sixth-former Harik Sodhi took a silver medal and was the highest-ranked performer from western Europe at the 55th International Physics Olympiad in Paris.

Harik is not only the first-ever QE pupil to receive a silver medal at the IPhO, but is also thought to be the best-performing UK student in the competition since 2010. He came 49th out of 420 competitors from 89 countries.

Headmaster Neil Enright said: “We are all extremely proud of Harik: simply to reach the IPhO is a tremendous achievement, so to go on and make QE history by taking silver in Paris is really quite remarkable!”

Although entrants compete as individuals, they are placed in national teams. Harik was part of a five-strong UK team, all of whom won medals. Three took bronze, while one was another silver winner, albeit with a lower score and ranking than Harik’s. Medals were awarded to the top 208 competitors.

Harik, who has been offered a place to read Engineering Science at Christ Church, Oxford, said: “This achievement would not have been possible without the support, mentorship, and encouragement of many people along the way — I’m deeply grateful to everyone who helped me reach this point.

“I would also like to congratulate my fellow competitors on all getting medals, which is a tremendous achievement at such a prestigious competition!”

His points total of 29.3 comprised 21.0 points from the theory section of the competition and 8.3 from the experimental problems section.

During the seven days of the IPhO, visits to the Chateau de Versailles and the Orsay Museum and a cruise on the Seine were organised for competitors.

To reach the IPhO, Harik progressed through three rounds of the British Physics Olympiad. He was selected for the UK team from among 14 high-fliers after putting in a strong performance at a selection camp in Oxford. He subsequently was invited along to a final training camp with his UK teammates at Trinity College, Cambridge.

The BPhO was founded in 1979 and it is believed that QE first started giving boys the opportunity to take part in the competition in around 2005. Over the intervening years, a handful of QE boys have reached the national team.

In 2013, Mahdi Elango was a bronze medal-winner at the International Physics Olympiad in Copenhagen. The following year, Aniruddh Raghu took bronze at the IPhO in Astana, Kazakhstan. And in 2015, Robert Swan also won bronze, at the IPhO in Mumbai, India.