Ten Chemists Triumph in Olympiad

Ten Chemistry learners at Solihull Sixth Form College have won awards for successful participation in the UK Chemistry Olympiad.

The A level Chemistry students took on the challenge, which is an annual assessment set by the Royal Society of Chemistry. It offers an opportunity for students to test themselves in the field of Chemistry, develop critical problem-solving skills and increase their knowledge in real-world situations.

The paper takes learners significantly beyond their A level syllabus and students are to be commended for achieving such good results, as four learners attained a Bronze certificate, three reached the Silver standard and two achieved the Gold award. Sophia Thom, who is going on to study Chemistry at University, was the highest ranked student, and her score was high enough to have the paper sent off to the Royal Society of Chemistry.

Chemistry teacher Hilary Woodward commented:

"Congratulations to all ten learners for pushing themselves by taking on this challenge. They took on this tough competition voluntarily; it involves exploring areas of Chemistry that are more likely to be encountered at university. It is tremendous to see our young people achieving such fantastic results, this experience will stand them in good stead for their A level examinations this summer and for their progression onto Higher Education."

Year 12 students Caroline Chen and Dora Tam where among the students who participated. In addition, Year 13 learners Gracie Tenniswood, Abena Gyamfi-Smith and Marigold Adu got Bronze awards, while Minal Hashmi, Oscar Cliffe-Hall and Mohammed Amaan achieved Silver status and Theo Scott and Sophia Thom were awarded Gold prizes.

Also in the Chemistry department, Year 12 students have had a visiting speaker this week. Dr Peter Hoare from Newcastle University's STEM outreach programme talked them about research grade analytical infrared spectroscopy and our chemists learnt how to produce and interpret spectra in order to identify unknown organic compounds. He also delivered an exam preparation session with Year 13 chemists. As an AQA examiner, he was able to give them the most up-to-date and impactful advice ahead of their upcoming exams. The session covered specific exam techniques, how to gain the maximum marks from their answers and finished off with a tutorial session on one of the tough organic analysis topics NMR.

Assistant Curriculum Leader Laura Whitby said:

“We are grateful to Dr Hoare for giving up his time to speak with both year groups. The sessions were hugely helpful to our young people and we hope will aid them in their upcoming exams.”

30 April 2026