Future Chemists' Competition – Launching January 2026
The Thames Valley Local Section is excited to launch the Future Chemists' Competition, a brand-new event designed to inspire and challenge young scientists. This event will be hosted by the Department of Chemistry, University of Oxford.
About the Competition
This free competition is open to state schools within the Thames Valley region and will consist of teams of four pupils. Each team should include: two students from Year 8 and two students from Year 9. Teams will carry out experiments, using advanced laboratory equipment and with the support of demonstrators, to tackle several chemistry challenges, all to be revealed on the day.
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday 13th and Wednesday 14th January 2026
- Time: 09:45 – 14:30 (on both days)
- Location: Chemistry Teaching Laboratory, University of Oxford, OX1 3PS
- Further Details: Lunch will be provided and all teams must be accompanied by a responsible adult (does not need to be a teacher)
The competition will take place over two days, giving students greater access to laboratory equipment and hands-on opportunities through a series of exciting mystery chemistry challenges.
Thames Valley Postcodes
OX (all), RG (all), SL4, SL5, SL6, SL7, GU11, GU12, GU14, GU51, GU52.
Financial Support
Bursaries are available to support school attendance. Please contact: thames.valley.rsc@gmail.com
Contact Us
For more information or for any queries, email Lauren at thames.valley.rsc@gmail.com