QE achieved its best-ever results in this year’s national Chemistry Olympiad, with six students of the eight boys entered achieving the coveted gold award, and the remaining two winning silver.
The Olympiad, which is organised by the Royal Society of Chemistry for Year 13 students, attracts thousands of entries each year from across the UK. Only 7% of entrants nationally achieved gold – which required a score of 45 and above from a two-hour examination paper. Participants who scored 30-44 were awarded silver, with lower scores receiving bronze, a commendation or a participation certificate.
The RSC says the aim of the competition is to stimulate debate on, and enthusiasm for, chemistry and raise awareness of the subject. The Round I paper is set to a standard that provides an opportunity to develop some of the skills required for study at university and beyond.
“It’s a taxing examination,” said Chemistry teacher Elizabeth Kuo, who helped prepare the eight boys – a higher number than the School has entered in previous years. “They did exceptionally well and we are very proud of their achievement.”
- Gold winners: Ahmed El-Masry, Ruhaid Kurram, Ian Leung (pictured sitting), Parth Patel (pictured sitting), Saad Sultan and Janaka Sumanasekera
- Silver winners: Sanketh Rampes and Krishan Shah (both pictured standing).