STUDENTS hope to leave their competitors stuttering as they begin preparations for MasterMind 2016.

This year schools across the borough will compete in a tough quiz-off at Harrow School on February 25 to win the prize of being the brainiest team in Harrow.

Hosted by Mind in Harrow and sponsored by the Harrow Times, this is the third annual MasterMind in Harrow competition and requires each team to raise money for the mental health charity as their entrance fee.

This week, the Harrow Times takes a look at how the two teams Bentley Wood High School are preparing for the challenge.

Coordinating teacher and Head of Year 9 Orla Canavan said: “Set in beautiful, leafy grounds, Bentley Wood High School is an all-girl school in Stanmore.

“All pupils are keen to learn and to help others in any way they can.

“Each girl here is encouraged to develop a wide range of skills and interests, to achieve her personal best and to work co-operatively with consideration for all members of our learning community at all times.

“This is why we feel so passionately about entering the MasterMind competition. The opportunity to fundraise allows us to work together for a great cause and the quiz element allows us give our brains a workout.”

The first team of girls from the school, called Team Brilliant, say they are looking forward to the challenge and are pleased to be able to help the charity.

Team Captain Inaya, 13, said: “I am thrilled to be participating in such a charitable competition and I know that it is going to be great fun as I get to work alongside my friends.

“I do feel that it will be a challenge for us, but excitement is impossible where there is no contest.

“Our team consists of Akangcha, 13, Ampa, 13, Botshelo, 14, Fathima, 13, and me. As individuals we feel we are quite knowledgeable but as a team we are a stronger, tighter and more confident unit.

“Our team is extremely pleased to be contributing to such a worthy cause and also have so much fun in the process.

“We have allocated different subjects to each member of the team as we are all very passionate about various areas. As Team Brilliant, we are determined to do our best and make our school proud.”

Also from Bentley Wood, the second team – Team Awesome – plan to leave their competitors stuttering with their ‘impeccable’ knowledge.

Captain Rayhana said: “Being 14 years of age, I have come to take skills from many experiences, such as organisational and time keeping skills. Hopefully, I’ll be a good addition.

“Starting off Team Awesome, we have 14-year-old Hannah Gamaty. From her impeccable quick thinking mathematical mind to her knack for good books, she’ll benefit us in many things.

“Next we have Huda Emeraan. Although being the youngest at 13, it doesn’t show with her English whizz of a mind. Her various vocabulary will leave you stuttering.

“Thirdly we have Aayushi, 14. With her artistic flair you’ll definitely be left in a cloud of sparkles. Also, her unimaginable maths skills will leave you in a pickle.

“Lastly we have Vani, also 13. Her love for swimming and the violin will help us swim through the rounds while singing in pride.

“Altogether, our team will definitely be awesome and hopefully we’ll live up to our expectations and more.