Abingdon News No.48

4 September 2018 Sixth Former represents UK in IBO Sixth former Patrick McCubbin was selected from 8000 students from 630 schools to represent the UK in the four-person team to compete in the International Biology Olympiad (IBO) in Iran this July. Patrick placed 16th internationally out of 261 competitors, earning a gold medal. As a team the UK broke the record for the best performance of a UK team at an IBO. The IBO brings together the most gifted young biology talents from around the world with more than 60 countries taking part. The competition aims to challenge the next generation of aspiring scientists through a series of theory and practical biological problems, testing inventiveness, creativity and perseverance as well as knowledge of Biology. Rowing, running and cycling the Dniester The lower sixth boys who took part in this year’s Moldova Project raised around £2,130 for the charity Agape by undertaking a sponsored cycle, row and run of 398km, the length of the River Dniester which flows through Moldova. This means that the grand total raised for Agape by Abingdon since our partnership began in 2000 has now exceeded £80,000. CCF Biennial Inspection Visiting speaker Andy Ibbott beat the odds to come back from a massive stroke in 2011 to compete in the Marathon des Sables in the Sahara Desert. Speaking to the second years as part of their “Be the best you can be” programme, Andy told how from being unable to speak, walk or move his entire right-hand side, he gradually built up his strength to the point where he took on this immense challenge. Inspiration indeed. Inspiration from the Marathon des Sables Inspecting Officer Lt Col Tom Perkins (OA) MBE, The Royal Scots Abingdon Science Partnership Tes award nomination Congratulations to the ASP who were nominated in the Community and Collaboration category of the prestigious Tes awards 2018. A fantastic achievement. Abingdon News The cadets were praised by both the Inspecting Officer at the Biennial Inspection and by the servicemen of Dalton Barracks where they competed in a timed run, 25m range live shoot, first aid stand and close combat trainer shoot.