Talented students studying A Level Chemistry at Xaverian College recently gained outstanding Gold, Silver and Copper Awards in the national Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, giving them experience at the highest level against tough competition.
The competition, which is organised by the University of Cambridge, aims to stretch and challenge students interested in Chemistry and provides an excellent experience for Chemistry students wishing to take their studies further. The paper is set by an experienced team of teachers and university chemists. It is designed to be accessible to Year 12 students but will take them significantly beyond the syllabus and encourage them to think about science in the way they would at university.
The challenge takes the form of a 90-minute written paper which students completed at the College. They had no prior knowledge of the topics but prepared themselves by looking at past papers. The students tackled questions based on advanced Chemistry theory and the top students were awarded Gold, Silver and Copper certificates. Students who achieved A/A* grades in the end-of-year exam were invited to take part in the competition, and of these, 17 gained Copper, 10 gained Silver, and 1 gained a Gold Award.
Priyanka Nayar, Chemistry Teacher at Xaverian, said: “We are exceptionally proud of our students as it was a very tricky paper. The questions would challenge some of the brightest university students, so achieving awards in all three categories is a great achievement. With over 9000 taking part throughout the country, our students have proved themselves to be amongst the best at this level.”
“Taking part in the competition is a great addition to the students’ Personal Statement and College reference when applying to university. Gaining a certificate proves a high level of attainment in chemistry and many previous students have secured places on Degree programmes at Oxbridge and Russell Group universities.
As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers an extensive range of A Levels in addition to several BTEC courses. This Is Your Place. Visit xaverian.ac.uk to find out more.
