Hawksley-Burbury Science Competition showcases talent across the sciences

The Hawksley-Burbury Science Competition is our annual Practical Science competition and is open to any scientist in the Fifth/Sixth Form, testing skills of observation and scientific deduction.

The competition is named after Samuel Hawksley-Burbury (OS 1848-50), ex- head of school and a Fellow of the Royal Society (FRS).

It consists of three sections (Biology, Chemistry and Physics,) in each of which candidates are set a number of short tasks requiring careful observation and analysis. It is not necessary to be studying these subjects at AS or A2 level to take part – they do not require specialised knowledge.

This year the 35 candidates were challenged to use microscopes to investigate slides of blood cells from varying animals and diseases, use chemical reactions to identify an unknown compound and to find the relationship between the time period and length of coupled pendula.

The students rose to the challenge magnificently, demonstrating resilience and high levels of practical skill when faced with these novel concepts.

Results are below, particular mention goes to George R (SH, LVI), the only participant to place in the Top 10 for all 3 Sciences, as well as Elsa L (M, V) who achieved almost full marks in the Chemistry challenge, achieving first place, despite facing off against older students.

Overall winner:              George R (SH, LVI)

Prox accessit:                 Natalie G (EDH, LVI)

Individual practical winners:     

• Biology - Harry P (S, LVI)
• Chemistry - Elsa L (M, 5F)
• Physics - Dason T (Rt, LVI)

George will be presented with his prize at the Academic Prize Giving during Speech Day at the end of this term.

Adam Smiter

Physics Teacher

Watch highlights of the competition below: