Top of the Bench

Preliminary Round 2020

What has changed?

Previously, schools (~30) would apply via e-mail to Trevor Birt, requesting preliminary questions which were completed under exam conditions and returned (~25) for marking. Of these, the top 6-10 would be invited to our Regional Final. Last year we held parallel quizzes and lab practical sessions jointly at Coventry University and the University of Birmingham. The top scoring teams were then invited to our regional final.

Why change?

• To ensure the ‘exam conditions’ are consistent for all schools
• To increase the scope and engagement of schools
• To make the ‘preliminary’ a fun day!

Summary

This year, due to restrictions, the preliminary round will be held either online or remotely at schools.  The top 5 or 6 schools from this round will then be invited to the Regional Final. The Birmingham & West Midlands Local section Regional Final will be held in January 2021.

How do I enter my students?

A team has to be made up of two Year 9 students, one Year 10 student and one Year 11 student. Where possible students who have taken part in previous years should not be included. To Register your school for this year’s Preliminary Round please complete the registration form below: