Two students from CATS Global Schools have been shortlisted in the prestigious John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize 2026, placing them among the world’s highest performing young thinkers in one of the largest international academic essay competitions.
This year’s competition attracted 100,227 entries from students in 183 countries, challenging participants to explore complex questions through independent research, critical analysis and persuasive argument. Being shortlisted is a significant achievement and reflects exceptional academic curiosity, originality and depth of thought.
We are proud to celebrate Victoria from Bosworth Independent School and Kyal Sin (Jason) from The Worthgate School, whose essays have been recognised on the global stage.
Victoria shortlisted in Economics
Victoria, an A Level student at Bosworth Independent School, has been shortlisted in the Economics category.
Originally from Taiwan, Victoria joined Bosworth to study her GCSEs and is now preparing for the final year of her A Levels, studying Mathematics, Further Mathematics and Economics. She hopes to continue her academic journey by reading Economics at university.
Her shortlisting reflects years of determination, resilience and a commitment to developing her understanding of economics beyond the classroom.
Speaking about her achievement, Victoria said:
“Being shortlisted demonstrates that my knowledge of economics and my critical-thinking abilities are developing in the right direction. This significant achievement has greatly strengthened my confidence.”
Kyal Sin (Jason) shortlisted in Public Policy
At The Worthgate School, A Level student Kyal Sin (Jason) has been shortlisted in the Public Policy category.
Originally from Myanmar, Jason studies Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Further Mathematics and an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). His essay explored the question:
“What discount rate should be applied to long-run environmental policies, and why?”
Drawing on ideas from biology, mathematics and economics, Jason combined knowledge from multiple disciplines to develop a carefully researched argument on a complex global issue.
Reflecting on the experience, Jason said:
“Being shortlisted was a real encouragement. It was recognition for an argument about a topic I care deeply about, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to challenge and develop myself academically.”
Encouraging independent thinking across CATS Global Schools
The John Locke Institute Global Essay Prize is designed to encourage students to think beyond the traditional curriculum and engage with challenging philosophical, political, scientific and economic questions. Success in the competition requires intellectual independence, analytical thinking and the confidence to explore unfamiliar ideas.
Victoria and Jason’s achievements reflect the learning culture across CATS Global Schools, where students are encouraged to pursue their academic interests, question complex ideas and develop the skills needed to succeed at leading universities around the world.
Whether exploring economic theory, public policy or interdisciplinary research, our students are supported to become confident, independent learners who are prepared for the challenges of higher education and beyond.
The final results of the competition will be announced later this year, and we wish both students every success.
Congratulations to Victoria and Kyal Sin (Jason) on this outstanding achievement. We wish them every success at the awards ceremony and look forward to seeing what they accomplish next.