National art awards for King’s pupils

Congratulations to two of our pupils whose artwork has won national recognition at the 2025 ISA National Art Competition.

Priyanka Varma (RMAN) and George Wlodarczyk (I2K) won their respective categories in the ISA North of England Art Competition earlier this year and progressed to the national finals, which were held in November.

We were delighted to learn that George was announced as the overall winner of the KS1 Drawing category for his self-portrait. 

Infant 2 teacher Jane Hartley-Richards, was very proud of his achievement. She said: “George’s self-portrait is very impressive but, what’s more, he really enjoyed drawing it. I am so pleased that his talent has been recognised at a national level and hope that he will continue to draw and paint with the same infectious enthusiasm that he shows in our art lessons.”

Removes pupil Priyanka, who created her entry, Buzzing Along, when she was in J4, was highly commended in the KS2 2D Art (individual) category.

Head of Willow Lodge and Junior School, Michelle Dewhurst, took the opportunity to congratulate both pupils: “There were more than 1400 entries to this year’s competition from schools all around the country and I am very proud that the creativity and talent of our pupils has been recognised in this way.

“Art is a very important part of the curriculum in both Willow Lodge and Junior School; as well as giving children the opportunity to express themselves creatively, art also helps them to develop skills of concentration and perseverance, and can build confidence and communication skills.

“Our specialist art teachers are skilled in helping pupils develop a wide range of skills to create pieces of art that never fail to impress me.”

You can see George and Priyanka’s artwork on display in the ISA Virtual Art Gallery here.