Schools’ Essay Competition 2026
Jesus College, Cambridge, photographed by Millie Gordon
Winners
Senior
Philosophy
Winner: Adeline Udeh
Runners up: Fin Scott, Lucas Hobson, Jayden Lawrence
Literature
Winner: Ollie O’Brien
Runners up: Emilie Wright, Manha Waquas, Isabella Christopher
Film and Art
Winner: Yuanxi Brooke Dan
Runners up: Malena Tolentino, Cecilia Butters, Hebe Swift
Politics
Winner: Anna Yeung
Runners up: Ari Greenstock, Martina Scarlata, Ofri Lev
Junior
Philosophy
Winner: Prerna Sagaran
Runners up: Shiyi Selina Yang, Liam Lee, Monty Green
Literature
Winner: Ajuni Arneja
Runners up: Saanvi Mazumdar, Aadya Prasoon
Film and Art
Winner: Tomisin Olawepo-Hashim
Runners up: Putu Aurorieta Shavieka Prayoga, Miaa Sachdev
Politics
Winner: Miruna Nan
Runners up: Cyrus Chan, Jai Kochar, Sahas Sharma
We extend our sincere gratitude to the academics who generously dedicated their time and expertise to marking essays for this year’s Schools’ Essay Competition. Your thoughtful feedback and support not only ensure the success of the competition, but also inspire the next generation of thinkers and writers.