From Germany’s road to war to castle defences: 2026 Colin Hardy Essay Award winners

The 2026 Colin Hardy Essay Award saw a bumper crop of entries. Colin, a former headteacher and author, was a member of The Western Front Association. His family sponsor this annual competition in his memory.

Students aged 16–18 are invited to submit an essay or project report of between 2,000 and 4,000 words on any First World War-related subject that interests them. Many of the entries were outstanding, and the judges had a hard time choosing the winners. The prizes have been awarded as follows:

First Prize (£500 each)

• Elodie Salter, Sexey’s School, Somerset – ‘How far was Germany’s decision for war in 1914 driven by defensive concerns?’

• James Kehoe, The Royal Grammar School, Worcester – ‘To what extent was Germany defeated in 1918 not by the failure of its military, but by the collapse of its wartime economy and society?’

Second Prize (£250)

• Samuel Crosby, Sir Joseph Williamson’s Mathematical School, Kent – ‘Defending to the last: Historic castles’ changing role in the Great War’

A number of the other students received Highly Commended and Commended certificates.

Colin would have been delighted, as is the WFA, by such passion for history being demonstrated by these young people.

Enter in 2027

Details of next year’s competition are on the website. The closing date is 20 August 2027.