In November 2024, 407 Deer Park pupils in Years 8 to 10 took part in the annual UK Bebras Challenge, an international competition in computational thinking, organised by the Raspberry Pi Foundation and delivered in partnership with the University of Oxford.

The Bebras Challenge aims to introduce students worldwide to computational thinking, engaging millions of young people from 60+ countries each year. In the UK, students completed tasks designed to develop logical thinking and problem-solving skills for their age group. Conducted online, the challenge allowed students to showcase their strengths in Computer Science and Mathematics, aiming to inspire them and get them excited about the world of computing and technology.

We are delighted to share that 29 'Intermediate' pupils from Cirencester Deer Park School earned Gold Certificates in November's UK Bebras Challenge! A Gold Certificate equates to being in the top 10% of entrants nationwide and qualifies them for the next stage of the competition, the Coding Challenge, scheduled to take place in March/April 2025.

The highest scores in each year group were achieved by:

• Dougal H (highest Year 8 Intermediate Challenge score in Year 8 and Year 9)
• Fred G (highest Year 9 Intermediate Challenge score)
• Jack B (highest Year 10 Senior Challenge score)

 A huge well done to each of the 407 pupils who participated in the challenge, and congratulations to our 29 Gold Certificate achievers - best of luck in the upcoming Coding Challenge!

Mr Alsaigh, Assistant Head of Ethics and Computing