I though it must be further maths that Thomas sits with his step brother for as hasn't he already got an A in Maths A level? Was surprised how long the step brother took to work out that Thomas was working six years ahead.......
Suspect Thomas is a true genius.
The trouble with the competition is that it only really tests memory and maths. You can't really test history ability by asking who shot Harold in the eye. They need to be set an essay discussing the battle of Hastings and examining the evidence that Harold was shot in the eye.(Or something like that - I'm a mathematician who gave up history at 13.)
But that would be rubbish telly. So I don't think someone like Holly can truly show her abilities on the competition.
The programme makers also seem to think that all viewers are unable to get basic maths. They have already said that you need 8 points to get through. Holly got 10 in the maths and Thomas got 16. So Holly doesn't need to "conquer her nerves" and Thomas doesn't need to deal with something he's (according to him) not very good at. They don't need to do anything. Except possibly avoid thumping the annoying bloke who asked the questions. 