Over the Michaelmas Term, Kingham Hill’s Quiz Teams – 1st IV, 2nd IV, U15 IV, and U13 IV – have been competing in the preliminary rounds of this year’s national Schools’ Challenge Quiz Competition. Matches have taken place during co-curricular time, testing pupils’ knowledge, teamwork, and quick thinking.
The competition, inspired by University Challenge, sees teams of four answering “starters for ten” and bonus questions across a broad range of subjects, including history, geography, arts, literature, sciences, sport, and popular culture. The tournament attracts 50–60 schools each year and is widely regarded as the UK’s premier school quiz competition. Questions also frequently cover etymology and current events, keeping participants on their toes.
In early November, the 1st IV team secured a hard-fought victory over Bedford School, winning 380–330 to advance to the second round. The match was closely contested against strong opposition, with standout performances from Amy, Finlay, Herbie, and Gabriel. They will now play King Edward’s Camp Hill in the National Second Round in January.
Later in the month, our other Quiz Teams had mixed results. The U13 IV performed admirably but were defeated 390–300 by Halliford School. The team now progresses to the plate competition, offering another opportunity to compete and gain valuable experience.
The U15 IV, however, delivered a spectacular 640–150 win against The Chase School, Malvern, thanks to lightning-fast buzzer speed from Lucy and George’s eclectic general knowledge. They progress to the National Second Round where they will play Yarm School this January. The following day, the 2nd IV narrowly lost 250–210 to Reigate Grammar School in a thrilling match that went down to the final set of bonus questions.
“This year, we are hoping to improve on our placing of 10th nationally,” said Head of the Octagon Academic Society, Mr Williams. Looking ahead, the main competition resumes in the New Year, with each team expected to play three to five online matches before the field is reduced to the final eight teams per section. The National Finals will then take place in person in June.