We are so proud of Florence in Year 5 who has won a fantastic writing competition through the National Archives. Applicants were invited to write a short story describing life in a Victorian workhouse or an experience of the Poor Law.
Here is a link to her story and the judge’s comments.
“I thought the descriptions in this were beautifully phrased, as was the way the author built the atmosphere of the workhouse. ‘Their faces were as pale as the dust of the windowsill’ stood out to me – it manages to give a lot of information in a very succinct, eloquent way. I also loved the extended metaphor of Mrs Watson’s tablecloth and the sun glinting on the snow like the silver thread running through the same. Some lovely imagery there. I also thought the way the final sentence recalled the title was very clever.
The Education Web Manager at The National Archives, said: “We were thrilled by the response to our competition and enjoyed reading the hundreds of fantastic stories we received. Thank you to everyone who entered and congratulations to our deserving winners.”
Entries were judged by a panel from the Education Service at The National Archives and special guest judge, acclaimed children’s author, Sharon Gosling. Judging criteria included realistic characters, good background details on the workhouse system, interesting use of language and dialogue which reflected the time in which stories were set. She has won a £25 book voucher and a bag of goodies from the National Archives shop. We have been so inspired by her independence and creativity!
READ FLORENCE’S WINNING ENTRY HERE
Categories: Girls' Prep School