Chemists compete to find the winning formula in annual school contest

Finding the perfect formula for making fish and chips was the task facing students as they took part in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s annual Schools’ Analyst Competition.

Year 12 students from four schools – Tonbridge, Tonbridge Grammar, Weald of Kent and Judd – worked in teams of three in the south-east regional heat, on Monday 16 May, to carry out experiments, answer tough questions and submit their answers via an online portal.

Using the labs in Tonbridge’s award-winning Barton Science Centre, teams had to complete four tests in a little over two hours, which included assessments of the acidity of vinegars, the composition of flour and the sugar content of potatoes.

Lisa Alford, the School’s Science Coordinator, said: “Those taking part had the chance to apply their knowledge in a fun and rewarding way, and there was a lot of excitement in the Chemistry Department as the challenge progressed and the deadline drew near.

“There was a great spirit of teamwork shown by each school, and as a reward for all their hard work students were treated to pizza in the Science Centre Atrium.”

More than 300 schools enter this national competition each year. Winning teams then take part in a second round and compete for the title of regional champions.

Last year, a Tonbridge School team was awarded first place in the Schools’ Analyst Competition, with each boy receiving gift vouchers and certificates. The School used its prize money to purchase books on the subject of chemical analysis.

Students are pictured in the Barton Science Centre, taking part in the competition, on 16 May.