A huge well done to Ben Aitken in Year 11, who took first place in the secondary school age category at the Gloucestershire Young Photographer of the Year Competition last week. Now in its 19th year, the competition received 895 entries from 26 primary and secondary schools across Gloucestershire. There were 25 entrants from STRS, an incredible nine of whom were shortlisted for the final exhibition. Ben was invited to attend the awards ceremony at Cheltenham Playhouse with Art teacher Mrs Violet, and both were very surprised and extremely honoured when Ben was announced as the winner!

The nine STRS photos featured in the final exhibition were:

Welcome to the Universe by Ben (11T) – first place

Altered Facade by Daniel (11T)

Leavened Heaven by Dylan (11S)

Snowy Sunset by William (8T)

Blue Skies Above by Ayush (8T)

Rolling Hills by Ollie (8S)

The Beauty of Sunset by Advik (8T)

The Inspector by Taha (8T)

Movement by Theodore (8T)

Mrs Violet said: “The standard of the entries absolutely blew me away, as my first time attending the event I have to say that the creativity and ingenuity in these young photographers was astounding.”

Well done all.

The competition is supported by Cheltenham Arts Council and The University of Gloucestershire and is judged by the members of Cheltenham Camera Club.