Chemistry students have been holding their own against some of the best brains in the country. Loreto students have been taking part in the International Chemistry Olympiad which is a competition against the top young chemists from 68 countries.

A group of Loreto chemistry students sat a gruelling two hour examination as part of the test. Mrs Winn, Head of Chemistry, said the paper included tricky calculations and unfamiliar scenarios so students really had to think on their feet. Three Loreto students won bronze awards.

“The students were competing with excellent students from schools and sixth form colleges across the country,” she said.  “Three students were awarded Bronze certificates - Aneela Nawaz, Raghad Sabbagh and Charlotte Li and we are very proud of them for holding their own against some of the top brains in the country!

Meanwhile other competitive chemists were representing Loreto in the Royal Society of Chemistry's Analytical Competition held at Manchester Metropolitan University. Students had to complete three complex practical analysis problems in three hours using university standard techniques and equipment.

“Loreto students did extremely well competing against students from other schools and colleges in the northwest,” added Mrs Winn.