Saint Paul's Flag in Antarctica!

Esther with her winning flag

Year 7 pupils from Saint Paul's Catholic High School in Wythenshawe, Greater Manchester took part in a competition to design a flag for Antarctica. The winning flag was then taken to Antarctica as part of a project with Antarctic scientists. The aim of this initiative is to inspire new generations about the Antarctic and Antarctica Day.

Mrs Helen Allsopp-Medley, Head of Geography at Saint Paul's, explained: "Following a Geography lesson about Antarctica, the pupils were asked to design a flag for the Antarctic - as it does not have its own - based on what they have learnt. The wonderfully colourful flags were then sent off to the Antarctica team and entered into a competition.

The winning flag, which was designed and created by Year 7 Saint Paul's pupil, Esther, was taken to Antarctica by the expedition scientists who have sent us some photos. We are very proud of Esther and delighted to see her design in Antarctica."

On December 1st 1959, 12 nations signed the Antarctic Treaty, a document declaring that Antarctica would be off limits to military activity and setting it aside as a place for peace and scientific discoveries. As of 2010, December 1st has been celebrated each year to mark this milestone of peace and to inspire future decisions. It is hoped that the celebrations can be extended worldwide through the Antarctic Flags initiative; giving new generations the opportunity to learn about the Antarctic Treaty and to share, interpret and cherish the values associated with Antarctica!

"This really is a remarkable achievement, we are extremely proud of those students who took part in the project. They enjoyed the work and showed so much enthusiasm for the topic," commented Mr Alex Hren, Head Teacher. "We received some amazing entries from our Year 7s for the competition - well done to all those who took part!"

(Visit ICN's Facebook page to see pictures of the flag with scientists in Antarctica.)

LINK

Saint Paul's Catholic High School: www.st-paulshigh.net