Abbotsholme School pupil Max Bettson-Burdett is the first pupil to receive a brand new Science Award – the Tony Price Science Award.
This is a new award given out this year following a decision made by Abbotsholme’s Governors to award an annual Sixth Form scholarship in memory of “one of the most remarkable teachers” to have taught at Abbotsholme. The award assists one pupil particularly towards the cost of further scientific study at university, and is given to a member of the Upper Sixth who is bound for a science based course at university and, in the eyes of the science department, will further the name of Abbotsholme School, and in particular the Science department, in the wider world.
Tony Price was an inspirational man who taught at Abbotsholme for 36 years, and was Head of Chemistry. For the academic year 1983-84, he managed to carry out a number of roles at the same time – teacher, head of science, housemaster, deputy head and headmaster! This shows the calibre of the man.
But like any great teacher here, his contributions went far outside the classroom. He ran the rugby XV for 21 years and he led many fossil-hunting hikes to the North Yorkshire coast, which is why following his death in 2011, a plaque and mounted ammonite fossil were unveiled by his widow at Abbotsholme. He is remembered for his ability to encourage pupils into a life dedicated to areas of science.
Max was chosen by all the science staff to receive this award for his hard work and dedication. Max is not only one of Abbotsholme’s two Heads of School, but a keen sportsman, as well as being in the orchestra and choir, has participated in Round Square exchanges and conferences, and is hoping to do go on to do Sports Science at University.
Max, aged 18 from Uttoxeter, said of his award, “I was really surprised to receive the award and had no idea about it being awarded, or that I would be the first recipient.”
He added, “I am very proud to have been chosen to receive it and be the first recipient of it; it is also really rewarding to be recognised for all the hard work I have put in and to know that it is all paying off.”