Perse pupils finish as runners-up in Intermediate Schools’ Challenge National Finals

The Perse School’s Intermediate Schools’ Challenge team finished as runners-up in the national finals at Winchester College after a series of impressive performances against some of the country’s strongest quiz teams.

Schools’ Challenge is a national general knowledge quiz competition for school teams across different age groups. Teams answer questions on subjects including history, science, literature, geography, sport, the arts and current affairs, progressing through regional and national rounds to reach the finals.

Captained by Benji and featuring Alexander, William and Harry, The Perse team travelled to Winchester College for the national finals, with Elliot acting as reserve.

The Perse opened the day with a convincing quarter-final victory over Westminster before edging past hosts Winchester School in a closely fought semi-final to reach the final.

In the deciding match against King Edward’s School, Birmingham, The Perse produced another strong display but were defeated 570-520 in a close final.

The competition marked the end of a remarkable Schools’ Challenge run for Benji and Alexander, who won 26 quizzes in a row and collected three national titles across different age groups.

Attention will now turn to the Junior Schools’ Challenge finals on 13 June, when The Perse will attempt to retain the national title at Year 7 and 8 level.