Science medal a bit of fun for Aaron

Kaikorai Valley College pupil Aaron Rumpler has won the ICAS year 13 science medal for gaining the top examination mark in New Zealand and the Pacific region. PHOTO: PETER MCINTOSH

That appears to be the science behind Aaron Rumpler’s success.

The Kaikorai Valley College pupil has won the International Competitions and Assessments for Schools year 13 science medal for gaining the top examination mark in New Zealand and the Pacific region.

The 17-year-old said the exam was not part of the school curriculum. He sat it purely because science was fun for him.

Not surprisingly, the medal is not Aaron’s first.

He won one in 2010 for year 6 digital technologies, and another two in 2011 for year 7 digital technologies and science.

For the past seven years, he has also received distinction and high distinction awards for being among the top pupils in ICAS information technology, science and mathematics exams.

Not surprisingly, he wants to study computer science and electronics at the University of Otago next year.

The ICAS exams are run by Educational Assessment Australia and are an independent, skills-based assessment programme which recognises and rewards achievement. They provide pupils in each year level with examinations in the core areas of digital technologies, English, mathematics, science, spelling and writing.

More than a million entries are accepted from more than 6300 schools in Australia and New Zealand annually.

Aaron is delighted with his latest ICAS success and will travel to Auckland in late November to receive his medal at a formal ceremony.