TWO Taunton School students have received prestigious awards in very different fields.

Sixth former Carly Brown has been awarded the Zoological Society of London’s prestigious Prince Philip Award and Marsh Prize, for her project: ‘Can the common garden snail see in colour?’ She will be presented with a certificate and a £600 cheque at the society’s headquarters in Regent’s Park, London, in June.

Taunton School’s biology department will also receive a certificate and the society’s Prince Philip Medal.

Carly’s 2,000-word study involved placing snails in “choice chambers” into which coloured lights were shone and their movements were recorded.

Carly said more than half the snails moved towards the red light, adding: “There’s more work to do but there is obviously something they prefer about red light.”

Meanwhile, pianist Mickey Li has been awarded the Diploma of The Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music for Performance (Piano), which he took at the Royal College of Music.

The qualification is globally recognised as equivalent to first-year undergraduate level, with the exam challenging the performer to give a recital from memory, a detailed viva-voce from the specialist examiners, a quick study test and the submission of researched programme notes.

Taunton School headmaster Dr John Newton congratulated both students.

He said: “Mickey has been nothing but totally dedicated to his music since he arrived from his prep school. I am full of admiration for his enormous skills and determination. He is wonderful performer.

“Carly is a superbly industrious pupil who has won an academic prize that will add lustre to her CV and university application. I am immensely proud of her.”