The competition was launched to mark the Diocese of Leicester's centenary in 2026, inviting Church of England primary schools across Leicester and Leicestershire to explore the themes of faith, hope and community through creative artwork, poetry and storytelling.

Children from Years 2 to 6 at St Luke's CE Primary School embraced the opportunity, producing a collection of artwork and displays celebrating 100 years of Christian faith, education and community.

Each year group interpreted the centenary theme differently, creating symbolic trees, thoughtful poetry and colourful stained-glass window designs featuring positive messages of kindness, compassion and hope.

One particularly meaningful creation featured a tree representing the school's Christian foundations. Its roots symbolised the faith, values and generations that have shaped the school community, while its growing branches represented learning, personal development and hope for the future.

To celebrate the school's achievement, Tracey Manns, Diocesan Deputy Director of Education, visited St Luke's CE Primary School to personally announce the exciting news to pupils and present their prizes. The visit provided a special opportunity to recognise the children's hard work, creativity and thoughtful contributions to the centenary celebrations.

The winning artwork will be displayed at St Martin's House Conference Centre in Leicester from Thursday 12 November 2026, coinciding with the Diocese's Centenary Day celebrations. The event will welcome special guests, including the Bishop of Leicester, the Rt Revd Martyn Snow, and the Bishop of Loughborough, the Rt Revd Saju Muthalaly.

To recognise their achievement, St Luke's was awarded copies of Heroes of Hope, a book featuring 22 inspiring stories of Christians from around the world.

Hanna Padam, Headteacher at St Luke's CE Primary School, said:

"We are absolutely delighted to have won the Diocese of Leicester Centenary Competition and are incredibly proud of the creativity, thoughtfulness and enthusiasm shown by our pupils.

"As a Church of England primary school, our Christian values are at the heart of everything we do. We aim to nurture well-rounded, compassionate and confident young people who recognise their own worth, care for others and understand the positive difference they can make in the world.

"The centenary has provided a wonderful opportunity for our children to explore their faith, celebrate the foundations of our school community and reflect on their hopes for the future. Having their artwork recognised and displayed as part of such a historic occasion is a tremendous honour."

Celebrating 100 Years of the Diocese of Leicester

The Diocese of Leicester is marking its centenary throughout 2026–27 with a programme of worship, storytelling, civic events and community celebrations, reflecting on 100 years of Christian faith and service while looking ahead with hope.

For Church of England schools across Leicester and Leicestershire, the centenary represents an important opportunity to celebrate the generations of pupils, teachers, families and church communities who have shaped Christian education over the past century.

The celebrations also highlight the continued importance of Christian values in primary education, supporting children's academic, spiritual, social and emotional development. Through faith, compassion, respect and service, Church of England schools encourage pupils to develop confidence, embrace their individuality and contribute positively to their communities.

St Luke's CE Primary School is part of Rise Multi Academy Trust, a family of primary schools across Leicestershire, Leicester City and South Derbyshire, committed to enabling all children to flourish and succeed.

Working closely with the Leicester Diocesan Board of Education, Rise Multi Academy Trust supports its Church of England schools in providing an inclusive, nurturing and values-led education that prepares pupils for life beyond the classroom.

The success of St Luke's in the Diocese of Leicester Centenary Competition reflects the school's commitment to creativity, Christian values and community engagement, inspiring pupils to celebrate the past while looking forward to a hopeful future.