2025-26 Perse Aristotelian Award essay competition launched

Following a record number of entries last year, The Perse is inviting Year 9 pupils across the UK and beyond to once again display their intellectual curiosity with the launch of the 2025-26 Aristotelian Award.

The popular essay competition is divided into two sections – arts/humanities and sciences – with a choice of five essay titles in each category ready to challenge their research skills.

Cash prizes are on offer with the winners of each category receiving £70. Four pupils in each category will be highly commended and receive £20 each.

Perse Head of Research Hazel Knight said: “We’re excited to announce the launch of our yearly Aristotelian Award and welcome Year 9 students internationally to engage with our collection of thought-provoking questions, choosing one that captures their curiosity.

“Pupils may find the free materials and videos on the Perse Research website a helpful way to begin their exploration. We can’t wait to see the ideas that come through in the submissions!”

You can find full details of the competition and how to enter on our Perse Research website here.

Entries should be submitted via our online form by the closing date of 5pm on Friday 9 January 2026.