Friday, 12 December saw the much anticipated finale of the KS3 Spelling Bee. The fact that it coincided with Gordon’s Christmas Jumper Day made it all the more exciting.

Organised by the English department, students within Years 7 – 9 have been competing since October during heats held in their Library lessons. Four finalists from each year group were then invited to represent their Year in the finale which was held, for the first time, in The Wynter Bee Theatre.
Supported by their peers in the audience, they performed brilliantly, despite the pressure. Not only did they have to adhere to strict Scripps National Spelling Bee rules and regulations (adapted for use in a school setting), but for many this was their first experience of being on stage; using a microphone; adjusting to the bright spotlight and, ultimately, still having to spell a word correctly without the benefit of pen and paper.

The finalists were exceptional with all three winners being crowned only after a tense ‘Sudden Death Championship Round’.

They all received a certificate presented by our Head of English, Mr Berry, and the winners will receive formal recognition at our end of term assemblies.

Congratulations to our KS3 Spelling Bee winners:
Y7 – Nolah
Y8 – Niamh
Y9 – Damon

We are already looking forward to the battle of the Spelling Bee again next year!