First year A level students Callum Boyns and Damien Watson from Truro and Penwith College are attending a residential British Physics Olympiad (BPhO) Masterclass at Oxford University this summer.

The pair were invited to the event after getting superb results in this year’s BPhO AS Physics Challenge, a competition designed to stretch and challenge the most-able students in the application of AS level physics. Callum and Damien both gained a gold award in the competition, alongside other Truro and Penwith College physics students who gained silver, bronze and commendation awards in the competition.

A gold award represents achievement within the top 5 per cent of entrants of an incredibly challenging, competition.

At the residential masterclass attendees will be able to sample what life is like for students of Oxford University, and take part in sessions on problem solving, a practical workshop, and academic lectures, as well as sessions looking at careers in physics and university admissions, including mock interviews.

Matt Bennett, science deputy team leader at Truro and Penwith College, said: “We have a long tradition of involvement in the Physics Olympiad competitions, from previous gold awards to staff involvement at International Physics Olympiads.

“The success of Callum and Damien this year further demonstrates our college wide commitment to supporting all students achieve their full potential. By gaining gold awards both Callum and Damien have demonstrated they are among the highest performing students in the country, and they should both be congratulated on such a huge achievement.”

Callum and Damien worked towards the BPhO AS Challenge through the college’s Academic Academy, a thirty-week programme of lectures and seminars designed to stretch, challenge and provide support for students who want to apply for top universities.

Andy Stittle, quality assurance leader at Truro and Penwith College, said: “The college encourages students to participate in national Olympiads as part of its Academic Academy provision, as not only does this motivate and inspire students to achieve highly and reach their full potential but it also assists in supporting their applications to the most prestigious universities. This activity also forms part of a comprehensive programme which has proven so successful in supporting students in their Oxbridge applications alongside specialist support tutors, practice interviews, visits to the universities and visits from admission tutors.”

Eighteen Truro and Penwith College students from across Cornwall have been offered conditional places at Oxford or Cambridge this year. For more information on the academies at the college, and the support on offer contact admissions on 01872 267000.