After several impressive heat rounds earlier in the day, some of which produced the highest scores in Spelling Bee history, the competition culminated in exciting primary and secondary finals.

A dramatic Primary Final
The primary final saw Co-op Academy Penny Oaks face Co-op Academy Glebe, with three pupils from each team taking turns to spell increasingly challenging words.

The tension built quickly as both teams faced difficult opening words. Penny Oaks’ first word, benevolent, and Glebe’s discrepancy both proved tricky, but the teams soon found their rhythm.

Penny Oaks successfully spelled articulate, while Glebe answered with a correct spelling of negotiation. After several closely fought rounds, the scores were level – sending the final into sudden death.

Both teams continued to battle through difficult words, including simultaneous and repercussion, before Penny Oaks correctly spelled conspiracy. When Glebe narrowly missed resilience, Penny Oaks were crowned the Primary Spelling Bee Champions.
One standout performer was Penny Oaks pupil Godsfavour, who correctly spelled every word she was given throughout the entire day.

Secondary Final victory for Co-op Academy Strinesdale (Waterhead)
The secondary final saw Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams compete against Co-op Academy Strinesdale, with three pupils from each team again taking turns on stage.
The competition began with two difficult words – conspicuous for Florence MacWilliams and paraphernalia for Strinesdale – both proving challenging.
However, Strinesdale secured the advantage in the next round by correctly spelling obligation. When Florence MacWilliams were unable to spell their final word, commencement, Waterhead claimed victory and were crowned the Secondary Spelling Bee Champions.

Audience joins the challenge
The excitement wasn’t limited to the stage. During the final rounds, students from all remaining teams took part in an audience spelling challenge, writing down the same words as the finalists.
Those who took part were entered into a raffle, with winners including students from Failsworth, Beckfield, Portland, Grove and Bebington. Prizes ranged from books to chocolate bars.

Across the Trust, students demonstrated incredible spelling ability, confidence and resilience. Congratulations to Co-op Academy Penny Oaks and Co-op Academy Strinesdale, and well done to every pupil who took part.

Check out the photos from the day below: