Junior Classics students’ success in national competition

Junior Year students have been recognised in this year’s Classical Association Mythology Competition, with one student receiving a Highly Commended award and six others earning praise from judges in a competition that attracted a record number of entries.

The annual competition invites students from across the UK and beyond to respond creatively to a theme from classical mythology. This year’s challenge focused on the story of Theseus and the Minotaur, inspiring a wide range of artistic and written interpretations.

Junior Year students took part in the project as part of their Classics lessons. Following an internal selection process, Head of Classics Miss Van Dal shortlisted seven entries to represent Trinity in the national competition.

Among the entries submitted, Rhys was awarded Highly Commended for his striking mixed-media depiction of the Minotaur. Judges praised his work, commenting: “You have created a very powerful image of the Minotaur using so many different materials and have included such a wealth of details. We particularly liked the nose ring.”

The judges were equally impressed by the quality of Trinity’s other entries. Sidd’s model was described as being “full of detail and action”, while Noah’s drawing was praised for its “sense of movement” and Teddy’s artwork for presenting the Minotaur as “a really fierce opponent for Theseus”.

Xavier’s use of colour was recognised as “effective and powerful”, Ben’s drawing was commended for capturing the atmosphere of the myth, and Leroi’s imaginative retelling from the perspective of an ordinary Athenian was praised as “an interesting take on the myth”. Judges noted that his story conveyed a powerful message that “we can all be brave if we choose to.”

Miss Van Dal said: “I am incredibly proud of all the students who took part. The competition challenged them to think creatively about a well-known myth and produce work that was both imaginative and thoughtful. To receive such positive feedback from the judges is a wonderful achievement.”

Congratulations to Rhys and to all seven students whose work was selected to represent Trinity on the national stage.

This is the second year Junior Year students have impressed with their Classical creativity.