Hawksley-Burbury Science Competition 2026

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 A level to take part – they do not require specialised knowledge.

This year the 35 candidates were challenged to identify the key features of the skulls of various animals, to explore the oxidisation states of Vanadium and chemical reactions between cobalt chloride and a range of elements and to observe and explain a set of six interesting Physics phenomena, including the Gauss cannon.

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 Elsa L, the only participant to place in the Top 10 for all 3 Sciences, as well as Hugh N who was second place in both the Chemistry and Physics challenges, achieving first place, despite competition with older pupils.

Overall winner: Elsa L (M, LVI)

Prox accessit: Hugh N (Rt, LVI)

Individual practical winners:     

Biology: Mariam A (QEH, LVI)

Chemistry: Remus Y (O, LVI)

Physics: Ranen C (I, LVI)

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

You can watch highlights of the competition here:

Mr A Smiter, Head of Science Partnerships, Teacher of Physics