We are thrilled to share some fantastic results from the first round of the British Physics Olympiad (BPhO), a charitable trust with links to Oxford University.

The BPhO encourages the study of physics and to recognise excellence in young physicists through ten annual physics competitions, taken by the top Year 13 students in the country. To achieve Top Gold, students must be in the top 6% of those top students in the country, with 1,600 candidates from 272 schools taking part in the UK. In addition, the competition was anticipating a further 2000 entries from overseas.  The paper consisted of a set of short answers and several long answer thematic questions, all requiring students to solve problems.

Diana R achieved Top Gold (pictured), with Emily S attaining Gold and Isabella L-S Silver. Sydney W was awarded Bronze I while Bronze II was achieved by Fiona C, Olivia D, Aditi D and Elizabeth N. Diana will now automatically progress into the second round which takes place in late January and may be joined by Emily, depending on how high her mark within the gold award was. Fingers crossed! 

Miss Motyer, Acting Head of Physics, said “The results are astounding and the girls should be very proud, especially Diana, Emily and Isabella, getting gold and silver is a massive achievement. The questions are extremely challenging so an achievement of Bronze I and II is also highly commendable.”

Congratulations to all eight physicists and good luck for the next round!