A PUPIL from Tweeddale has become the first in Scotland to win a science hat-trick – by achieving the country’s highest exam scores in biology, chemistry AND physics.

Treeve Willcock, who attends Peebles High, gained five A band ones in her Highers this year, with an average of 96 per cent overall.

And earlier this month the 17-year-old from Broughton was invited to the Science and the Parliament event at Dynamic Earth in Edinburgh, to collect the highest achiever accolades from the Royal Society of Biology, Royal Society of Chemistry and the Institute of Physics – becoming the first youngster to scoop all three.

A delighted Treeve told us: “This proves the science department at Peebles High School is one of the best in the country. 

“The teachers are always willing to help out, and make sure to answer any questions in plenty of detail. 

“I want to congratulate everyone who worked hard in order to achieve success in their exams, or helped others to reach their goals. Our efforts as a whole make Peebles High School the excellent school it is. 

“On a personal note, I would like to dedicate these awards to my dad, Damion Willcock, who recently died. I know this would have meant a lot to him.”

Treeve was supported at the ceremony by six teachers including Alistair Huddleston, biology; Sarah McDowell, chemistry; Jim Burrows, physics; and headteacher Paul Fagan.

She is now aiming to go on to study medicine at a Scottish university.
And mum Ruth Kirby couldn’t be prouder. She told us: “It has been a difficult and emotional few years for Treeve. 

“She has gone through a lot and has managed to receive some absolutely incredible results. 

“I am very proud of her. She is a very special person. Each separate department, the Royal Society of Biology, Royal Society of Chemistry and the Institute of Physics, got in touch to invite her to the event which was incredible.

“I believe Peebles High School is now going to install a plaque in the science department to mark her achievements.”

Peebles High headteacher Paul Fagan added: “Everyone at Peebles High School is extremely proud of Treeve’s achievements. 

“It was both a pleasure and an honour to be present at the Science and the Parliament event where she was rightly celebrated as one of the most prestigious scholars in Scottish schools.”