Exeter pupil wins prestigious essay competition

An Exeter School pupil has won a highly prestigious essay competition run by he Institute of Physics.

Lower Sixth Former Chris Richardson took first place in the secondary category of the annual IOP Environmental Essay Competition which is open to all secondary school pupils in the country.

House Captain Chris's winning essay was titled "The 'ins and outs' of tides and their use as a renewable energy source" and analysed in detail the fundamental sources of tidal power as well as the pros and cons of tidal barrages themselves.

Physics teacher Dr James Wilson said he was delighted to hear that Chris had scooped this award.

"It is testament to his initiative, his curiosity and his skill in communicating some complex Physics ideas as well as the role that Physics has to play in shaping all of our futures."

Chris said: "I wrote my essay on the creation of tides and our utilisation of their natural force in tidal power.

"Renewable energy is an increasing important topic and will continue to be in the future, so was a very interesting subject to cover.

"Hopefully I will study either Engineering or Mathematics at university; whichever I choose, researching and producing my essay was both enjoyable and rewarding."

The IOP Environmental Essay Competition aims to recognise excellence in communicating the significance, value and rewarding nature of engaging with environmental physics.