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Articulation Prize Scotland Guidelines

1. About the Articulation Prize Scotland

The National Gallery’s Articulation Prize is a nationally acclaimed annual event promoting the appreciation and discussion of art. The competition engages students aged between 16-19 in full-time education, with art, regardless of background or experience, and develops their confidence and ability to express their opinions, thoughts and conclusions. Each student delivers a 10-minute illustrated presentation to an audience about a work of art, artefact or architecture of their choice. Adjudicators then assess each presentation as a whole, looking at content, structure, delivery, the originality of the speaker’s approach and unique potential.

The 2024 Articulation Prize Scotland will take place at the Pathfoot Building, University of Stirling.

Schools are asked to submit an online application before Monday 7 October 2024.

2. What does taking part involve for my school?

Your school will need to hold an internal school heat to select a student speaker to represent your school. A digital internal school heat support pack will be sent to your school following your submission of expression of interest.

State schools can also attend an optional free-of-charge Discovery Day, exploring the art at the University of Stirling’s Art Collection. Alongside this, we also offer online mentoring sessions as extra support for those taking part in the Prize.

3. Internal school heats 

Schools and other educational organisations are required to organise an internal school heat, the winner of which is chosen to represent them at the Articulation Prize Scotland Final on Wednesday 6 November 2024, 4.30-6.30pm at the University of Stirling. Articulation will supply material to support the event including helpful hints for teachers, best practice guidelines, and Articulation certificates.

The benefits of participating in the Articulation Prize include developing public speaking and presentation skills, research and essay skills, knowledge and confidence, critical analysis, and original thought.

Short films of past talks are available to view on our Articulation YouTube channel.

4. Joining an audience

Where feasible, schools are encouraged to bring an audience of students and staff to the Articulation Prize event. Places may be limited but schools will be notified of places available in advance. Schools not participating in the Prize are most welcome to bring their students but booking is essential.

5. Selection and Prizes

An Adjudicator will select a first, second and third prize winner.

Winning 2024 Finalists will be awarded first prize £100, second prize £75, and third prize £50.

6. How to apply

Please apply online here to register your school’s participation in the 2024 Articulation Prize Scotland. Applications close on Monday 7 October 2024.

The form will register both your internal school heat and your entry to the Articulation Prize Scotland.

7. Registration fees

Schools and colleges from the independent sector will be taken through to a payment portal following their online registration. The registration fee includes an introduction to Articulation assembly pack, an internal school heat support pack, and participation in the Articulation Prize Scotland event.

Schools from the state-maintained sector:

  • The Articulation Prize is free for all state schools to participate in.
  • If the school or college is taking part for the first time, they will receive a £50 bursary to spend on books / materials of their choice.
  • A limited number of travel bursaries are available to those schools that would otherwise not be able to afford the cost of travel. If you think that your school may be eligible, please register first, then contact us.

Schools from the independent sector

  • For all independent schools, a registration fee of £200 applies.
  • Please note that no refund will be given for the registration fee after the closing date for the competition entries has passed (7 October 2024). Prior to this date, please contact us if you are no longer able to take part.