In an assembly this week, our School Community congratulated 2025 Queen's Commonwealth Essay Competition Gold Medallists Aymaan, Shaurya and Adshayan (Year 9), and Nii and Praharsh (Year 8 ). Established in 1883 by the Royal Commonwealth Society, the Queen’s Commonwealth Essay Competition (QCEC) is recognized as the world's oldest international writing contest for schools. The competition aims to promote literacy and global understanding by encouraging young writers to explore the values of the Commonwealth. Notable past participants have included significant public figures who have gone on to become global leaders in politics, literature, and journalism.

The 2025 theme, "Our Commonwealth Journey," commemorated the Commonwealth's 75th anniversary and its growth into a diverse network of 56 nations. Students were prompted to consider various forms of journeys — geographical, historical, or personal — and how these experiences deepen understanding among the Commonwealth's 2.7 billion people. Under the guidance of WHSB's English Department, our entrants engaged with the theme through creative writing, showcasing their intellectual curiosity and academic effort.

WHSB delivered an exceptional performance, with 24 pupils receiving awards among more than 53,400 global entries. The School earned 12 bronze, 7 silver, and 5 gold medals, a result demonstrating the global impact of our students' voices on the world stage. We are exceptionally proud of all our entrants and of this achievement. We look forward to more success later this year in the 2026 QCEC.

With thanks to Miss Bailey, her colleagues in the English Department, and to Miss Ives, who facilitated our pupils' entries to this most prestigious, international competition. Well done to all involved.