Students from across our trust travelled to Cambridge University, Gonville and Caius College, for the grand final of the MFL Spelling Bee. With hearts pounding and minds buzzing with excitement, they prepared to showcase their linguistic prowess in a battle of wits and words.
Months of dedicated preparation had led to this moment. In February, amidst the enthusiasm of the regional finals at Flegg High Ormiston Academy and Ormiston SWB Academy, these students emerged victorious, earning their rightful place in the prestigious grand final. Amongst them were Eliza Hindley and Natalia Lukaszewicz from Broadland High Ormiston Academy, Mandela Murphy and Maria Chirila from Ormiston Victory Academy, Kamil Aukhadiyeva from City of Norwich School, an Ormiston Academy, Samiah Mahmood from Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews Academy, Madeleine Goodridge from Ormiston SWB Academy, Harvey Elliott from Ormiston Ilkeston Enterprise Academy, Efemena Okunuwadje from Ormiston Chadwick Academy, and George Hurst from Tenbury High Ormiston Academy.
Over 250 students from 15 academies had embarked on this journey, but only these ten had proven themselves worthy of the final challenge. With determination etched on their faces, they delved into their language studies, mastering 150 words in either French, German or Spanish, ready to demonstrate their linguistic finesse on the grandest stage.
Under the watchful eyes of the audience, parents and staff, the students dazzled with their command of language. With each word spelt flawlessly, they captivated the crowd with their confidence and poise, even amidst the mounting pressure of the grand final. The standard was exceptional, leaving the judges in awe of the talent on display.
As the competition reached its pinnacle, it became evident that the calibre of these young linguists was unparalleled. In a thrilling finale that pushed the boundaries of skill and determination, the competition ended in a nail-biting tiebreaker. Yet, amidst the tension, one student rose above the rest.
With unwavering focus and resolve, Kamil Aukhadiyeva from City of Norwich School emerged as the ultimate victor, claiming the title of Champion of the MFL Spelling Bee Grand Final. His victory was met with thunderous applause from all involved.
In acknowledgement of his remarkable accomplishment, Kamil was granted a prestigious prize – a two-night, three-day excursion to Barcelona with his family, offering him another opportunity to employ his MFL Spelling Bee expertise.
Julie Sutcliffe, Lead Practitioner (MFL), said: “As Lead Practitioner for MFL with Ormiston Academies Trust, I am so proud of all the students that have taken part, and especially our grand finalists. Learning 150 words in a foreign language is no easy task, and the standard was so high. Being able to celebrate the occasion in such a prestigious setting as Cambridge University was also amazing. Congratulations to all our competitors, and to Kamil… enjoy Barcelona!!”
¡Bien hecho! to all the students involved!