Students gear up for Olympics for chemists

EXCELLENCE on the sporting field is what usually leads to an Olympic appearance – but three Pakenham
Year 11 students Andrew O’Neill, Steven Runting and Jordan York are in training for the International Chemistry Olympiad in Japan, but have a few hurdles to pass before qualifying for the world event.
The trio will be among 1500 students across Australia to sit the National Qualifying Exam, a test which tests problem solving and ability to understand scientific concepts.
From the test, 25 to 50 students will be selected to attend a summer school at Monash University from which the Australian team of four budding scientists will be picked for next year’s Olympiad.
Pakenham Secondary College science teacher Sonia Bhatia was upbeat about the chances of the three boys.
“We have to decide if the students are good enough for training – these students are outstanding,” Dr Bhatia said.
Andrew has begun training at Melbourne University, attending a two-hour lecture each Thursday, thanks to sponsorship from the Rotary Club of Pakenham.
“I bring the notes back (to school) and we work through it,” he said.
Andrew said he had always had a knack for chemistry but wasn’t sure if he would pursue a career in the field.
“I’m not sure, I haven’t looked into it,” he said.
However, the other two boys are keen. Steven said he would pursue a career in chemistry or biology, while Jordan is interested in doing the same in either chemistry or physics.
All three boys study chemistry and physics as part of their VCE program, while Steven also does biology.
Dr John Floyd, a volunteer at Pakenham Secondary College as part of the CSIRO Scientists in Schools program, said the boys were giving themselves every chance to make the summer school and Australian team.
“Their willingness in doing this shows they have potential,” he said.
“They’re quite committed and really want to do well.”