A STUDENT from The Hurst Community College was named AWE’s Young Scientist of the Year after wowing judges with his commitment to science.

Will Maidment, 14, of Tadley, beat off competition from pupils across North Hampshire and West Berkshire.

The competition was launched during the summer term, with teachers invited to nominate a student from Year 9 whom they consider to be an outstanding young scientist.

But Will, who attends The Hurst, in Brimpton Road, Baughurst, stood out above the rest, with the judges impressed to hear of his commitment, ability to inspire others and his regular contributions to class discussions.

The entries were blind-judged by a panel of AWE’s most senior scientists and the trophy was presented to Will by Andrew Randewich, AWE’s head of plasma physics, during a special visit to AWE’s new Orion laser facility.

Will said: “It was fantastic to be given the chance to go round the Orion facility, and to hear how the lasers work. It was also a great opportunity to meet scientists and to get an appreciation of what it’s like working in their chosen field.

“It’s encouraged me to think about taking my science studies on to A level.”

Mr Randewich, head of profession for physics at AWE said: “It was fantastic to see the high standard of the entries for this competition.”