How One Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys Flag Travelled 8,000 Miles to Antarctica

We are thrilled to share some incredible news from KS3 Geography!
Earlier this school year, our KS3 students participated in the UK Polar Network’s Antarctica Flag Project. This fantastic initiative invites young people to learn about Antarctica – a continent dedicated to peaceful scientific collaboration – and to design flags inspired by its unique environment, wildlife, and global significance.
The aims of the project were to:
- Teach students about Antarctica as a place where nations collaborate and share scientific research to peacefully manage 10% of the Earth.
- Encourage the creation of flag designs for Antarctica that reflect students’ interests and inspiration.
- Connect classroom learning with scientists and educators currently working in Antarctica.
As part of the project, selected student-designed flags are taken all the way to Antarctica by real scientists working in the field.
Our students submitted 30 creative and thoughtful entries, and we are delighted to announce that one of our designs, created by Xyle in Year 8, was chosen to represent Woolwich Polytechnic School for Boys in Antarctica.
Our winning flag has officially travelled to Seymour Island, located in the Weddell Sea! The flag was carried by Floortje Van Den Heuvel, a Cloud Physicist with the British Antarctic Survey, who photographed it on location – complete with emperor penguins in the background.
Alongside the photographs, we received an official certificate confirming the journey:
- Location: Seymour Island, Weddell Sea
- Latitude: 64.17°S
- Longitude: 56.45°W
- Flag bearer: Floortje Van Den Heuvel, Cloud Physicist
- Signed by:

This is an extraordinary achievement for our students, and we want to extend a huge congratulations to all entrants for their creativity and enthusiasm. Their work highlights not only artistic talent but also a growing understanding of global citizenship and environmental stewardship.
We would also like to say a heartfelt thank you to Miss Tuckwell for organising this inspiring opportunity for our students.
Photos of the winning flag in Antarctica and our official certificate are attached. Please take a look and celebrate this memorable moment with us!

