S6 pupils Tanish K and Katrina P have recently completed the Cambridge Biology Challenge, a nationwide competition run by Homerton College, University of Cambridge. This year’s challenge saw over 2,500 students from across the UK compete in four demanding rounds designed to test deep biological understanding and problem-solving skills.

Tanish and Katrina’s team placed an outstanding 8th out of 914 teams nationally, a remarkable achievement that reflects their dedication, teamwork, and scientific insight.

Mr Martin, Principal Teacher of Biology, shared: “The Biology department is incredibly proud of Katrina and Tanish’s achievements in this prestigious competition. Their success not only highlights individual talent and perseverance, but also the value of curiosity-driven learning. Opportunities like the Biology Challenge allow our pupils to stretch themselves beyond the classroom and develop the skills and confidence that will serve them well in their future studies and careers.”

The competition, open to school pupils across the UK from S3 to S6 (or equivalent), challenges participants with questions similar to those asked in Oxbridge interviews, encouraging both creative and critical thinking. Throughout the competition, teams of up to five students respond to monthly biology questions in a variety of formats, including essays, videos, posters, and podcasts.

At Robert Gordon’s College, the S6 experience is an invaluable year for developing personal and social skills, as well as for exploring subjects in greater depth through tutorial and seminar style classes, alongside the wide range of opportunities offered by the super curriculum.. Taking part in programmes such as the Cambridge Biology Challenge helps pupils  develop a broader range of skills and knowledge, preparing them confidently for  the next steps beyond school.