The International Biology Olympiad (IBO) is a competition for pre-university students, which tests practical and theoretical biology skills. Taking place under exam conditions, the competition consists of a challenging multiple-choice paper taken online. Questions cover a range of GCSE and A Level topics with additional questions that test problem-solving skills and understanding of core principles.

Shev, a second-year A Level Biology student said: “It was a challenging task but it was a fun way to test my knowledge and ability to adapt to a change in context with the questions”.

Naalia Khan, Life Sciences tutor at our Longbridge (Bournville College) campus explains: “This competition is generally the preserve of grammar schools and this is the second year in a row we have participated. We are so pleased and proud that all four of our participants this year have achieved a bronze or commended award. The results are impressive as this is a tough international competition.”

Students who take part are encouraged to reference their participation in their university applications. Most South & City College participants plan to or have applied to prestigious Russell Group universities, with one student already receiving four offers within a week of applying.

The students who took part have also been spurred on and motivated to apply for other science competitions, such as the Chemistry Olympiad and the Year 13 Biology Olympiad. We wish them the very best of luck and look forward to reporting on further successes.