Taking Physics Beyond the Classroom

It has been a busy and exciting term for the Physics Department, with numerous pupils taking part in an array of national physics competitions. Over 30 pupils elected to give up their lunchtimes to sit the Intermediate and Senior Physics Challenges, aimed at 5th and L6th respectively, and consisting of a demanding one-hour paper filled with complex problem-solving questions. Whilst we await the results, we can celebrate the more than 60 students who entered the annual British Physics Olympiad, a prestigious national competition aimed at the Upper Sixth and designed to challenge the very best physicists from across the country. The new structure of the competition meant that a preliminary new Round 0 paper had to be passed for entry into the tricky Round 1 paper. The standard of performance from our students was top-notch and a special mention must go to Jack Z in the Lower Sixth, who achieved a Gold Award, placing him among the top 300 physics students nationwide – an outstanding accomplishment. Further notable performances came from Jonathan W, Rares A, Yoyo C, Lucas L, Samuel P, Posh K, Mathilde G, Emma D and Mark U (who made it through to Round 1 as a Fifth Year Student).

Moreover physics excitement, our A-Level Physicists achieved 2 Golds (well done to Jonathan W and Jack Z again!), 2 Silvers, and 2 Bronzes in the devilishly difficult British Astronomical and Astrophysical Olympiad!

It is fantastic to see so many students engaging enthusiastically with physics beyond the classroom, and we congratulate all those who took part.