Tonbridge boys selected for Cambridge masterclass

Two Tonbridge Lower Sixth boys have been awarded places on a prestigious science summer school run by the University of Cambridge.

Zac Nwogwugwu and Kenneth Lee have both been accepted on to the Senior Physics Challenge, a highly selective and competitive three-day programme which sees Year 12 pupils from across the country competing for just 50 available places.

To be selected, students must complete a series of Physics problems on the ‘Isaac Physics’ platform, which are often well beyond the A-level syllabus in terms of difficulty. Students are invited to attend based on their problem-solving ability and also on their commitment to the subject.

The event is normally held as a residential course over three days at the University of Cambridge, but due to the pandemic it has currently moved online.

Physics Teacher Chris Powell said: “Zac and Kenneth did extremely well in completing a high number of challenging Physics problems, and I offer my congratulations to them on their excellent achievement.”

He added: “I am especially impressed that, despite lockdowns and the inevitable disruption due to Covid, we are still seeing our boys performing well in national contests such as these and achieving such good results. It’s a great tribute to the boys’ character.”

During this year’s course, students will take part in workshops on advanced problem-solving in Quantum Mechanics, attend evening lectures and also have the opportunity to meet their fellow participants (online).

Pictured: Kenneth (left) and Zac in the School's Barton Science Centre.