A team of four pupils from Robert Gordon’s College have won their regional heat at the Top of the Bench competition organised by the Royal Society of Chemistry. 

The annual Top of the Bench competition has fueled the curiosity and excitement of hundreds of pupils across the UK for the past 20 years with the ultimate test of chemical knowledge. 

Beating local schools in their regional heat, Kai D (S3), Jessica L (S3)  Ananth S (S2) Shuban K (S4) progress to the final round of the competition in spring. Competing against other schools from across the nation, the team will be tested individually on factual chemical knowledge before taking part in a group exercise to compete for a winning place in the final. 

First prize is awarded to the best overall school performance, with five teams receiving runners up prizes. There’s also a chance for one pupil to be awarded The Jacqui Clee Award in recognition of outstanding contribution given on the day.

Dr Kennedy said:  “We are really grateful to the Royal Society of Chemistry for providing the opportunity for our pupils to expand their knowledge and understanding of Chemistry beyond the curriculum, even in the middle of a global pandemic!”

When asked why she joined the Robert Gordon’s College team, Jessica L said: “I wanted an opportunity to represent the school whilst challenging myself against my peers in a subject I enjoy.”

Robert Gordon’s College wishes the pupils the best of luck for the final heat of the competition.