Meeting the challenge

An old boy has helped his team progress to the second round of a prestigious BBC quiz.

Ben Pugh (QE 2002-2009) was part of the Pembroke College, Cambridge, team who beat St Anne’s College, Oxford, in the first round of University Challenge. Ben, who is reading German and Russian, put in an impressive individual performance, answering questions on a diverse range of subjects. He was also on the receiving end of presenter Jeremy Paxman’s trademark mockery for his ability to recognise the girl band Girls Aloud in a music round.

Ben, 21, studied English Literature, French, German and History at A-level at QE, securing a grade A in all four subjects – the top grade at the time. He was also placed in the top five in the UK in AQA’s GCSE German and French courses.

“Ben is a natural linguist and was a positive contributor to the community of QE,” said Headmaster Neil Enright. “During his time here he was a great asset to the weekly language clinics – supporting younger boys with their studies and homework. It is no surprise to see him performing so well for his college. We wish him and the team success in the remainder of the competition.”

The episode is on BBC iPlayer until 3 October and can be seen by following this link.