WAKEFIELD WHERE GIRLS HAVE BIG FUTURES RSC’s Schools’ Analytical Chemistry Competition 2021
Each year the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Analytical Division holds the Schools’ Analyst Competition. The North East regional heats are usually held at Huddersfield University in May, however due to Covid restrictions this was not possible. Instead, after applying, WGHS was selected to host this competition for our Year 12 students. Our A Level chemists (three per team) put their analytical skills to the test and were required to undertake various practical techniques to solve problems relevant to industrial and social needs. They were also required to carry out some background research followed by a three hour lab session in which they carried out their analyses. The students carried out thin layer chromatography, flame tests and test tube reactions to identify the contents of three damaged chemical barrels found washed up beside a river in the rural town of Allvale. They also answered a series of challenging analytical chemistry questions. Congratulations to team 3 composed of Mabel Hepplestone, Sophie Russell and Mollie Shone who were the WGHS winners. This was a fantastic opportunity for the students to put into practice their analysing skills and an enjoyable afternoon was had by all. Dr Duerden-Brown
18 WGHS REVIEW
