IT was a hat-trick for budding artists at Priory Middle School after three pupils scooped all the top prizes in a Rotary competition.
Three of the Dunstable’s middle schools – Brewers Hill, Priory and Streetfield – responded to Dunstable Rotary Club’s invitation to supply outstanding work from Year 7 and 8 pupils to display in the town library and judged as part of a contest.
The bi-ennial event, organised by the Rotary Club, was given the theme ‘a celebration of middle school art’ this year – particularly pertinent given Central Bedfordshire Council’s recent decision to retain middle schools for this area.
The top 12 pieces of work were displayed in the library for two weeks. They were then judged by Rotarians.
First prize was awarded to Priory Middle pupil Karanjeet Sidhu. Katie Williams took second place and third went to Olivia Bush – both also from Priory Middle. A highly commended award went to Michael O’Malley from Brewers Hill.
Organiser Roger Pepworth said: “I was glad I didn’t have a vote in the judging, but also relieved when the results were announced.
“I was embarrassed that one school had won all three top prizes but relieved because it is the first time for some years that they have won.”
Karanjeet and her parents will be presented with her prize for her winning entry (above) at a special Rotary lunch at Tilsworth Golf Club.
Rotary Club president Ian Coulter said: “This celebration of middle school art is an important part of our work in schools. We aim to help them and the youngsters whenever and in whatever way we can.”