Putting the 'win' in Winchester: Hampshire chemistry students crowned 2023 Top of the Bench champions

Science students put the ‘win’ in Winchester College by emerging victorious in this year’s Top of the Bench final!

The awesome foursome beat teams from around the UK and Belgium at the University of East London (UEL) in our annual chemistry challenge. As well as taking home the trophy, each student from the Hampshire school received Amazon gift vouchers, while their school received £500 for new equipment.

The first runners-up, four students from Colchester County High School for Girls, received Amazon vouchers. Hannah Addiscott from The Grange School was awarded the Jacqui Clee Award for the most outstanding individual contribution.

This year’s competition was themed around sustainable energy, with 31 teams of 14 to 16-year-olds making it to the 25 March final. The teen scientists all came together at UEL, with written and practical exercises testing their chemistry knowledge. 

First up was a 40-minute chemistry knowledge exam that saw the school groups split into pairs. This was then followed by a 90-minute practical exercise as the groups of four reunited in the labs.

UEL chemistry course leader Tony Raynham said they were delighted to host the talented young chemists in the bioscience department. And he believes these students should have high hopes for the future.

"There are many exciting career options for those with a degree or background in chemistry, including ways of changing lives by finding and developing new medicines and vaccines, and sustainable alternatives to help with the increasing pressure on the planet’s resources," he said.

"I hope some of these young people may consider a chemistry degree and go on to be pioneers in their field.’

Speaking at the event, the RSC’s director of education and professional practice Sarah Robertson thanked the students and their teachers for their dedication and hard work in supporting them to take part in the competition.

She also expressed her gratitude to the RSC local section members for their efforts in organising and running the regional heats, as well as thanking the UEL team for hosting the event.

A selection of pictures from the Top of the Bench final 2023 at the University of East London: