Young Angmering duo’s essays are among the UK’s best

Angmering School students Ben Galbally and Jake Pettman, both 14, were part of a handful of youngsters from across the globe to be praised for their writing prowess in the Commonwealth Essay Competition.

The competition received more than 9,500 entries worldwide, with this year’s theme being ‘Team Commonwealth’, touching on both the Glasgow Commonwealth Games and the spirit of friendship between Commonwealth nations.

Jake Pettman was one of only 20 children in the UK to scoop a silver award with his essay entitled, We’re a good partnership, you and I.

He said: “I was quite shocked. It was such a long time ago that I had completely forgotten about the essay.”

Ben picked up a bronze award for his essay, Glasgow Smiles Again, which was structured like a newspaper feature focusing on the 2014 sporting spectacle.

He said he was ‘happy’ to be given the award and was stunned at being one of only 23 in the UK to receive a bronze.

The duo are part of the school’s history club and had been inspired to join the competition after learning about the First World War and the Commonwealth.

Their essays were sent off in May and were a chance for the boys to debate the positive aspects of the Commonwealth.

However, this was not the first time the teens had formulated an argument. They have both been part of Angmering’s debating club since Year-7.

Anna Ward, history subject leader at the school, said: “I’m so proud of them. It’s nice for them to get the recognition they deserve.

“They are so hard working and dedicated students who get involved in the school’s community. This is a fantastic achievement for them both.”