The Jack Petchey Achievement Award and the "Speak Out" Challenge

The Jack Petchey Achievement Award and the "Speak Out" Challenge

Established in 1999, the Jack Petchey Foundation provides essential funding for programmes and projects that benefit young people aged 11–25 across London and Essex. The Foundation’s core mission is to empower the next generation to embrace new opportunities and play a proactive role in society. Since its inception, this philanthropic initiative has distributed grants totalling more than £150 million.

A cornerstone of our school's partnership with the Foundation is the "Speak Out" Challenge. EGA has proudly participated in this prestigious public speaking programme for the last 15 years, hosting the Regional Final twice, providing our students with a platform to develop their communication skills, build self-confidence, and share their unique perspectives with a wider audience. This long-standing commitment to oracy ensures that our pupils are equipped with the articulacy and poise required for future success.

In addition to this, the Achievement Award Scheme enables us to recognise and celebrate the significant personal milestones of our students. Rather than focusing solely on academic or athletic brilliance, these awards honour perseverance, personal development, and the simple act of doing one’s best. A unique aspect of the programme is that it is peer-led; young people are directly involved in nominating and selecting the winners, encouraging them to raise their aspirations and support their fellow students.

Nominations on how to spend the grant money that we receive are welcomed from pupils, staff, and parents, with the School Council overseeing the final discussions and selection. Each winner is awarded a £250 grant to be spent in school on items or projects of their choice that benefit the wider student community. 

 

 

FF4DA03D 772E 4155 9011 3C034CBF6F1F

News

The EGA Charity Launch event Posted on: 9/10/2025

The EGA Charity Launch event

On a vibrant evening filled with pride and purpose, the Elizabeth Garrett Anderson School officially launched its new charity initiative with a spectacular event that brought together staff, students, alumni, and special guests. The event marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the school’s journey to provide even greater opportunities for its students. The evening opened with heartfelt speeches from key figures in the EGA community. Headteacher Sarah Beagley spoke passionately about the vision for the charity and how it will enrich the educational experience for current and future students. Jo Dibb, Chair of Trustees and former EGA Headteacher, reflected on the school's rich legacy and the importance of continued support to maintain its high standards and inclusive ethos. A highlight of the evening was the visit from Tina Tchen, representing the Obama Foundation. Tina shared moving reflections on the long-standing partnership between the foundation and EGA, highlighting how the shared commitment to empowering young women has had a lasting impact on both sides of the Atlantic. The event also featured an inspiring student panel, showcasing the journeys of four exceptional EGA alumni: Dr Khadija Owusu, Eunice Obianagha, Councillor Jasmine Martins, and Olga Popiolek. Each shared stories of their time at EGA and professional successes since leaving, offering insight, motivation, and pride to the audience. Their stories were a testament to the powerful foundation EGA provides and the possibilities that lie ahead for current students. Throughout the evening, EGA students represented the school with confidence and poise, demonstrating their potential is, as the school motto states, without limits. The night concluded with a show-stopping performance of ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ , which left the audience moved and inspired; a fitting end to a night celebrating community, talent, and ambition.
View all