Last week, we were delighted to announce the winners of this year’s Sixth Form Essay Writing Competition, which drew an impressive number of entries across four categories: English Literature, History, Philosophy and Ethics, and Sociology. Students showcased not only their writing skills but also their ability to think critically, research deeply, and communicate with clarity and creativity.
After careful review by our panel of judges, the following winners were selected:
English Literature – Harry S, Y12 Blackpool Sixth Form College
The English Literature category posed the question whether literature texts that offend should be studied. Mrs Mayhew, Head of English, was impressed with Harry’s essay, which successfully analysed the androcentric culture at the heart of a selection of Robert Frost poetry.
History – Maja S, Y11 Lytham St Annes High School
In the History category, students impressed Miss Jenkinson, Head of History, with well-researched responses to the question, ‘Do we learn from history?’ Maja submitted a well-balanced defence of our ability to learn from past events but also our tendency repeat them.
Highly Commended:
Violet B, Y11 Carr Hill High School
Joe K, Y11 Montgomery Academy
Philosophy and Ethics – Ruby M, Y11 Montgomery Academy
This category challenged entrants to tackle the moral question of the existence of evil. Mr Donovan, Head of Religious Studies, praised Ruby’s essay for its clarity of thought and nuanced reasoning.
Sociology – Jiya C – Y11, Hodgson Academy
The Sociology category challenged students to consider the role of traditional media in a 21st Century digital landscape. Mr Maund, Head of Sociology, was impressed by Jiya’s thought-provoking analyses of contemporary culture, social structures, and human behaviour.
Highly Commended:
Harry S – Y12, Blackpool Sixth Form College
Maja S– Y11 Lytham St Annes High School
Each of the winners received a certificate of achievement and a prize to recognize their outstanding work. Beyond these awards, all participants are to be congratulated for their dedication, originality, and academic curiosity.
This year’s competition has once again shown the value of fostering critical thinking and strong writing skills. We thank our judges, participants, and organizers for making the event such a success—and we look forward to next year’s essays with great anticipation.