Oundle strikes Gold in Chemistry Olympiad

Published on isbi School News dated Friday 23rd of May 2014

In mid-February, Oundle pupils took on the significant challenge of The Royal Society of Chemistry's Chemistry Olympiad with 5 pupils attaining Gold medals.

Chemistry teacher, Dr James Bessent commented, 'This 2hr paper is a true test of a pupils' chemical expertise. Not only does it test recall but also an ability to apply their knowledge to novel and demanding problems. The Olympiad is quite possibly the most demanding exam the pupils will sit at Oundle.'

Gold medals (awarded to only 7% of the 5682 participating students) were awarded to Eleanor Cook (17), Richard Lane (18), Daniil Butman (18), Nigel Leung (19) and Chris Gilmartin (17). Silver medals were awarded to Viren Pandya (18), Mercury Bao (18), Ben Paice (18) and Gabrielle Tse (18).

Each year The Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) organise the selection of the UK team for the Olympiad Competition. The successful students go on to take part in an International Final. The selection for the competition is open to all post-16 students who sit the challenging written test of chemical knowledge with the questions in Round One helping to develop some of the skills required for study at university and beyond.