In a dazzling display of creativity and global connection, Walton Academy students recently participated in the Antarctic flag competition, a part of the Antarctic Flags Project. This unique initiative pairs schools with scientists and support personnel traveling to Antarctica, carrying flags designed by students to proudly fly on the icy continent. The students then receive photos and certificates creating a tangible link between classrooms and the distant realms of scientific exploration.
The Antarctic Flags Project is an annual celebration aligned with Antarctica Day, commemorating the signing of the Antarctic Treaty on 1 December 1959. The treaty, a landmark document, declared Antarctica off-limits to military activity, designating it as a sanctuary for peace and scientific discoveries.
The Walton Academy geography department seized this opportunity to not only celebrate Antarctica Day but also to deepen the students’ understanding of the continent. Students were given free rein to design their flags, incorporating elements of the unique Antarctic ecosystem, including flora, fauna, and the vast icy landscapes. They were also encouraged to consider the flags of the countries that have signed the Antarctic Treaty.
The results showcased the incredible range of artistic expression from students. Jessica, Lola, Tiana, and Tilly demonstrated remarkable artistic skill in their submissions, setting a high standard for the competition. However, it was Finley whose flag emerged victorious, capturing the essence of Antarctica in a design that stood out among the entries.
Finley’s winning flag not only earned the admiration of the school community but also embarked on an extraordinary journey to Antarctica. Theresa Gossman, a lab manager with the British Antarctic Survey, carried Finley’s creation on the RRS Sir David Attenborough, capturing a photograph in the picturesque Lemaire Channel along the West Antarctic Peninsula. The photographs and certificates returned to the school serve as lasting reminders of the connection forged between the students and the researchers working in one of the most remote corners of the globe.
The geography department applauds the efforts of all participants. The Antarctic flag competition has not only brought the beauty of Antarctica to the forefront but has also ignited a passion for exploration and fosters a sense of global awareness, emphasising the importance of international cooperation and the pursuit of scientific knowledge in the name of peace.
