Congratulations to our amazing group of second year Chemistry students, over twenty five of whom recently undertook the first round of the International Chemistry Olympiad.  They voluntarily gave up their lunch hour and free time to compete with the top 6% of all A2 Chemistry students in the country, in a challenging, and at times seemingly impossible, written examination based on all aspects of A2 Chemistry, including material not yet covered in college.  No preparation is given to the students beforehand, unlike in many of our rival schools where specific coaching is offered.

The results were once again absolutely fantastic with a range of Silver and Bronze awards.  Our top student, Fergal Hanna, who is off to Cambridge to study Natural Sciences, was just half a mark away from the coveted Gold award.  Presenting the certificates, Mr Sean Gaughan, Assistant Principal, commended the students for putting themselves out there amongst the best and using their creative logic to tackle these very tricky questions.  It is time well spent and provides a real sense of achievement for these students.  On behalf of the college and the Chemistry Department, we are very proud of the students and wish them all great success in their forthcoming public exams and indeed in their future careers.  Many have gained places at some very prestigious institutions, such as Imperial College, to study a range of scientific courses. Their excellent problem solving skills will be put to good use at university!