Schoolchildren who won a ban bullying poster competition, organised by the University of Essex, have visited the Colchester Campus to receive their prizes.

The University’s Equality and Diversity Unit ran the competition at the end of last year, inviting local youngsters to design a poster on the theme of banning bullying. The competition was held in support of the Vice Chancellor's initiative to promote dignity and respect on campus and formed part of National Anti-Bullying Week.

Joint winners in the 4-7 age group were Anna Hughes (Millfields Primary School, Wivenhoe) and Rhianna Lawrie (Chase Lane Primary School, Dovercourt), while joint winners in the 8-11 age group were Hettie Finn (Millfields Primary School, Wivenhoe) and Charlotte Joiner (Hilltop Junior School, Wickford).

The prize-winners, who attended the event with their parents and representatives from their schools, received prizes of gift vouchers and engraved pens from the Vice Chancellor, Professor Colin Riordan. They also went on a tour of the University and had a celebration lunch at Wivenhoe House.

Syd Kent, from the Equality and Diversity Unit, said: ‘We were delighted with the response and would like to thank everyone who took part, the overall standard was very high.’

The issue of bullying is part of the National Curriculum and information about the competition was sent to schools across the region, covering areas close to the University’s campuses in Colchester, Loughton and Southend. The winning entries may be used in future publicity campaigns to highlight dignity and respect.

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Notes to editors:
The attached picture shows Vice-Chancellor, Professor Colin Riordan, with the competition winners.