Eden Project Students Reach National Finals of Botanical University Challenge

A group of Cornwall College University Centre students based at the Eden Project have reached the finals of the prestigious Botanical University Challenge, marking them among the top emerging plant scientists in the UK.

Testing Their Botanical Knowledge

The team, made up of Rory Queripel, Alfred Bradley, Emma Coble and Kate Bidwell, competed against finalists from the University of Aberdeen and the University of Plymouth, putting their botanical knowledge to the test.

Held annually, the Botanical University Challenge brings together students from leading institutions to assess their skills and understanding of botany through a series of competitive rounds. The Eden-based students took third place against their postgraduate competitors, showcasing both their expertise and enthusiasm for the subject.

Support and Opportunities

Supported by Cornwall College University Centre programme staff Dr Tim Pettitt and Dr Jorge Martinez-Fortun, the group also had the chance to network with professionals, attend the Student Botany Festival and gain valuable insights from across the sector.

Their success highlights the quality of higher education opportunities available through Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project, which offers both foundation and bachelor’s degrees in horticulture and plant science. Students there learn in a world-class botanical environment and are encouraged to engage with real-world challenges.

“A Brilliant Event to Celebrate Botany in the UK”

“What a brilliant event to celebrate botany in the UK!”, said Dr Jorge Martinez-Fortun.

“With Rory, Alfred, Emma and Kate making it all the way to the Botanical University Challenge finals, they showed they are among the best botany students in the country.

“The students had a great chance to network, attend specialised workshops and test their knowledge among the top universities in the UK. It was an inspiring experience for everyone involved and we are very proud of the students.”

To find out more about the degree-level programmes at Cornwall College University Centre, visit www.cornwall.ac.uk/courses-at-eden/

📷L–R Kate Bidwell, Alfred Bradley, Rory Queripel and Emma Coble, students from Cornwall College University Centre at the Eden Project, who reached the finals of the Botanical University Challenge.