Two teams from the Thomas Clarkson Academy in Wisbech travelled to Dereham, in Norfolk, for a National Reading Champions Quiz regional heat.

The students from Years 7 to 9 pitted their skills against schools from as far afield as Ipswich and Norwich in the annual contest.

The quiz is a chance for students to share their knowledge and this year’s group had a great time taking part.

“I am proud of our students and how they worked together in their teams throughout what is a very difficult quiz, with questions from such a wide range of fiction books,” said librarian Miss Leanne Robinson who accompanied the teams.

“Both of our teams demonstrated some excellent book knowledge in some very tricky rounds.

“I already know I have some disappointed students who will be too old to take part under the quiz rules next year.

“There were eight rounds, ending in a tense tie-break that used all three tie-break questions before going to sudden death to decide the East of England Regional Heat winners.” 

The students enjoyed their experience and many are already looking forward to next year’s event.

“I had a great time and surprised myself with how much I knew,” said Fred from Year 9, who added that it was fun, but challenging.

The video clip round was popular with participants and Alexandra in Year 9 said students had to work out the book titles from clues on screen. And there were biscuits!

“My favourite part of the day was meeting new people and having fun with friends.

“The dingbats round was my favourite because of the amount of answers we got right,” said James, also in Year 9.

Jennifer in Yr 7 said: “It was good and I knew lots of information. I look forward to being in a team next year.”

The two teams travelled to the Northgate School to take part alongside 23 others competing on the day.