Year 7 Meriden student Ella Z was placed in the top 15% of high school and university students worldwide, achieving Silver Honours in the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC).
Seven other Meriden students were placed in the top 35%, achieving Bronze Honours: Kate Nguyen (Year 8), Michelle Lu (Year 10), Mia Pertsinidis (Year 10), Anjali Popuri (Year 10), Reshmi Ramana (Year 10), Leah Har (Year 11), and Aiyang Wu (Year 11).
This is the first year Meriden students have participated in this competition.
The IAAC is an international competition for high-school and university students from all over the world who can prove their astronomical creativity. A unique challenge, it gives students the chance to apply skills not usually found in the classroom and test their thinking on a broader level. The competition comprises a qualification round, a pre-final and final round.
“At Meriden, students are encouraged to explore beyond the classroom and pursue interests that can be enjoyed here at school. Meriden girls can even become official IAAC Ambassadors, promoting IAAC and astronomy here at the school,” said Mrs Alexandra Phillips, Coordinator of Learning Link – Innovation and Science Teacher at Meriden.
“Congratulations to all students involved in the IAAC this year. Meriden looks forward to nurturing the astronomy program in 2025 and beyond.”
