TWO brainy students at Ely College have been invited to join British Mensa, the UK’s high IQ society, after undergoing a series of gruelling tests.

Brothers Thomas and Edward Frodsham, aged 15 and 13, were put forward for consideration by Christine Dallender-Jones, the college’s gifted and talented co-ordinator.

She had recognised the boys’ special talents, working with them as part of the college’s support for students of exceptional ability in academic, vocational or sporting areas. The brothers’ scores mean that their IQ is in the top two per cent of the UK.

Mrs Dallender-Jones said: “We are delighted for Thomas and Edward who worked really hard for this achievement, which is thoroughly deserved.

“We offer a range of additional support and extended learning opportunities for gifted and talented students at the college, including field trips, visits to academic institutions, museums and lectures, and links with students at partner schools.

“The opportunity to take Mensa’s IQ tests is popular - another 10 students are lined up for the next one.”

The brothers’ parents, Penny and Richard, supported the initiative and took their sons to Cambridge to take the test last month.

Penny said: “We are immensely proud of Thomas and Edward. Being accepted into Mensa is a fantastic achievement, and becoming members will help them develop their skills and interests.

“This is one of many opportunities that have been made available to our boys and we are very grateful to the college, and especially Mrs Dallender-Jones, for their encouragement and support.”

Mensa was founded in England in 1946 as a ‘society for bright people’. The only qualification for membership is a high IQ, and one of Mensa’s core aims is to ‘identify and foster human intelligence.

Speaking on behalf of himself and his brother, Thomas said: “We are excited to have the honour of being accepted into Mensa, and we hope to benefit greatly from the opportunities they have to offer. We would also like to thank Mrs Dallender-Jones for recommending that we apply.”