Lecturers from the University of Brighton have helped a group of local sixth-form students to success in the UK Chemistry Olympiad.
In a challenging written test of chemical knowledge 21 students from Varndean College performed excellently, with the majority achieving either silver or bronze awards.
Matt Ingram and Ken Rutt, lecturers in the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, helped the students prepare for the competition by providing additional coaching.
The UK Chemistry Olympiad, organised by the Royal Society for Chemistry, is part of the selection process to find four students to represent the UK at the International Olympiad in Washington DC later this year.
And although the Varndean students missed out on the coveted top 25 placings needed to progress to Round 2, John Luton, Head of Chemistry at Varndean College, believes it's been a valuable experience, saying,
"Not only have my students had the opportunity to test and expand their understanding of chemistry, but they've also been able to develop study skills that will benefit them as they progress to university and beyond."
Matt Ingram added,
All staff and students wish the UK team the very best in the International Olympiad finals."We've really enjoyed working with the students from Varndean and are pleased to be able to provide them with access to the expertise and facilities at the University of Brighton."
"They also get a chance to experience a little of what it's like to study at university. And if any of them do wish to go on and study chemistry at degree level they know we offer some great courses."
