Nine Rugby Students Earn Gold in National Scientific Challenge

Rugby School students have once again impressed in the National Scientific Thinking Challenge, a rigorous national competition designed by academics from six top UK universities. This year’s challenge saw 15,663 students from across the country take part, tackling demanding problems that test deep thinking and scientific reasoning.

This is one of the most competitive national STEM challenges for Year 10 students, and we are delighted that nine Rugby pupils achieved Gold Awards, placing them in the top 10% nationally. Special congratulations go to Mengmeng, who scored a remarkable 95%, one of the highest scores in the country.

The challenge, which began during the pandemic, is now a fixture in the national calendar and continues to inspire the next generation of scientists. Last term, Rugby welcomed Nick Barker, one of the competition’s founding organisers, to deliver a lecture to our LXX students, further strengthening links with the university teams behind the event.

Dr Stephen Belding, Head of Chemistry, commented:

“This challenge rewards sharp, independent thinkers. We’re proud of our students’ performance against such a strong national cohort.”

With Gold, Silver and Bronze certificates now awarded, we look forward to sharing further opportunities from the partner universities in due course.