College students successful in British Biology Olympiad 2014

Picture shows (left to right): Dr Mike Price, Robyn Hockley, Martin Furlepa, A Skeleton, Zac Wilson, Holly Ridpath, Rufus Manson-Hayden, Dr Jackie Johnston, Aidan Marks, Adam Tod, Aashka Bahal, Harry Davies, Catherine Hodgson, Oliver Giles, Jack Dawson, Jean Raleigh.

Beating off stiff competition from thousands of contestants across the UK, the Collyer’s students won one gold, three silver and three bronze medals. In addition, nine Collyer’s students received commendations, with three of those highly commended.

Dr Mike Price, Subject Leader for Biology at Collyer’s was very pleased with another very successful year: “The computer based competition was incredibly demanding and really tested in-depth biological knowledge at the highest level. Our students responded superbly and I’m delighted and proud that they can rightly recognised as among some of the best in the country. Well done to them all!”

Aidan Marks won a gold medal, while Robyn Hockley, Zac Wilson and Martin Furlepa achieved silver. Bronze medals were awarded to: Duncan Smith, Madie Eve and Hollie Ridpath. Rufus Manson-Hayden, Jack Dawson and Maha Ashraf were highly commended. Adam Tod, Alex Messenger, Harry Davies, Aashka Bahal, Catherine Hodgson and Oliver Giles all received commendations.

Dr Mike Price added: “Aiden’s gold medal deserves a special mention. For a first year student to be in the top 1% nationally really is a phenomenal achievement!”

Collyer’s Principal, Dr Jackie Johnston said: “These are exceptional students and the college is extremely proud of them. Their national success is down to talent, hard work and the brilliant support of their Biology teachers. We have a strong faculty for Mathematics and Science, with a richly deserved reputation for excellence.”