Horsforth brothers find winning formula (From Wharfedale Observer)

Horsforth brothers find winning formula

9:01am Thursday 26th April 2012 in Schools

Two brothers found a family formula for success when they took the top prize in a national chemistry competition.

Matthew Li, 16, and his brother Harry, 13, from Horsforth, formed half of the winning team, which blazed a trail in the Royal Society of Chemistry’s Top of the Bench competition.

The other members of the top team were Caroline Taylor, 14, from Bramhope, and Daniel Voice, 15, from Thorner.

The teenagers, from the Grammar School at Leeds, had won through regional heats to earn their place in the national final as central Yorkshire regional champions.

The final, held at Imperial College London, comprised written exams and a team practical.

Harry said: “I learned a lot from working with older students - although the written test was easier for my age group the practical was the same standard for all the team and was very challenging.”

Kim McDougall, chemistry teacher at the school, said: “It was an absolute pleasure to be in the company of four exceptional students. We are very proud of the achievement.”

As well as receiving individual vouchers, the team won a trophy and £500 for the chemistry department.