Report: International Young Physicists’ Tournament

The International Young Physicists’ Tournament (IYPT 2024) was held in Budapest, Hungary during the Term 2 holidays from 10- 17 July. What is known as the World Cup of Physics was the biggest to date with students from 38 different countries competing. New Zealand has an enviable reputation in IYPT though Auckland Grammar School have not sent a team to compete internationally since 2019 due to COVID-19 and travel restrictions.

Auckland Grammar students have proudly represented New Zealand in the IYPT team over many years and Form 7 student M. C. McKee led the team as captain this year. The other members of the New Zealand team were from across the country.

IYPT requires students to use the scientific method in the same way research scientists do. This involves modelling phenomena, designing experimental apparatus, proposing solutions and an oral defence or debate called a ‘Physics Fight’. The IYPT competition has five rounds drawn by ballot at the start of the tournament. New Zealand won two of their fights and their total score ensured they were awarded bronze medals and 13th place overall.

McKee and the other team members spent countless hours carrying out investigations after school and at the training camps held in the School’s physics laboratories prior to departing for Budapest.

M. C. McKee crossed stage at the beginning of Term 3 to receive his IYPT bronze medal, a New Zealand representative badge and the School’s congratulations.