Reflecting on an exceptional year, it’s heartening to see just how far each child who has taken part in this year’s Platform has come. Academic, social, and personal growth have been central to their experience, which has been marked by rich learning opportunities, creative exploration, and moments that will resonate for years to come.

A Platform pupil shared: “When I wake up on a Platform Day, it’s really exciting.” Another commented: “The teachers are very kind and will always answer your questions so we can learn more. I’ve learnt all sorts of things I didn’t know before.”

Throughout the year, Platformers have not only tackled but eagerly embraced a curriculum that spanned a wide range of subjects. From English to Maths, Latin to French, History to Science, they have shown an impressive commitment to both learning and personal growth. In English, they explored identity poems and crafted persuasive letters, expressing themselves in ways that surprised even them at times. Through creative writing and analysing complex literary works, they deepened their understanding of language and self-expression. The encouragement to read widely led many to explore and enjoy genres they might not have otherwise considered. One particularly exciting moment came when they received a letter from Buckingham Palace in response to the persuasive letters they had sent earlier in the year. King Charles and his team expressed their delight at hearing from the pupils, making this a memorable highlight for everyone.

A Platform Pup (Year 2) said: “It can make me smarter, and it can make me a little bit wonderful.”

In Maths, they faced challenging concepts in shape, space, and measurement, mastering the foundational elements of variables, constants, and coefficients. Teacher of Maths, Mr Matthews was particularly impressed by their resilience in problem-solving and mathematical reasoning; they tackled every challenge, working through complexities with curiosity and determination. For the staff who volunteer to teach Platform, it has been rewarding to see the pupils progress not only through their learning but also as thinkers.

The learning journey extended far beyond the classroom, with pupils taking part in a series of enriching experiences. They wandered the historic halls of Westminster Abbey, admired masterpieces at Tate Britain, and immersed themselves in royal history with visits to the King’s Gallery and the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. They rounded off their explorations with a scenic riverboat cruise down the Thames to Greenwich, enjoying not just the sights of London but also hearing stories of our city’s rich past; stories that connected their studies to the world around them.

In the final weeks of the programme, there was a surprise visit from poet and author Joshua Siegal, whose energy and passion for words inspired all. The pupils were so moved that they crafted their own poetry, which they performed during the final Platform session.

Mrs Jones, Director of Platform, said: “It’s moments like these that make education such a transformative experience. What stands out to me most as I reflect on this year is how each pupil has grown in confidence, character, and curiosity.”

To each pupil who took part, you have made this year such a memorable and rewarding experience. You brought energy, inquisitiveness, and joy to every moment, and it’s clear that each of you has a bright and promising future ahead. With such a strong foundation, we wish you every success as you continue your journeys.

Westminster Platform is designed to support gifted and talented pupils from London’s state schools. Through free Saturday sessions led by teachers from Westminster and Westminster Under School, it nurtures academic potential and builds confidence, helping pupils from Year 2, Year 5, and Year 10 reach their full potential.