top of page

External Schools Essay Competition

Our 2026 Essay competition entries are open now!! This is applicable for any student who wants to enter our essay competition for a chance to win a cash prize. This is a great way to improve your essay writing skills in a topic that covers all disciplines in PPE.

More information below

Questions

1. “As the leader of the Conservative Party, it would be effective to pursue an alliance with Reform UK?” Discuss.

2. Imagine you are running from the Nazis with a crying baby who is giving you away. You have two optiopns - suffocate the baby and live, or allow the baby to keep on crying and get caught. Which is more moral and why?

 
3. Should Europe and the UK have an industrial policy? Why or why not?

4. “Private systems, such as private education and healthcare, ultimately improve outcomes for those who cannot afford them.” Discuss.

5. Imagine a pill exists that permanently removes the desire to have children. Would you choose to take it? What ethical, social, or personal considerations would shape your decision?

6. Should politicians ever face consequences for breaking manifesto promises?

7. Should UK government ministers receive significantly higher pay in exchange for a complete ban on outside employment?

8. "University tuition fees for domestic students should not be uniform. Instead, those which the government deems more valuable, should be subsidised more and those which the government deems less valuable should be subsidised less." Discuss.

9. Is ‘green growth’ a contradiction in terms?

​
10. "We can only ever gain true knowledge through our thoughts." Discuss.

Essay Competition Information

Who can enter

All applicants with an interest in any of the disciplines within PPE are allowed to enter! Whilst we haven't set any age limitation, it's primarily targeted at students in Year 11 and Lower Sixth.

Why should you participate?

It looks great for your UCAS - being able to talk about essay competitions you've participated in really demonstrates an interest in the degree you're applying to. Additionally, shortlisted essays will have a chance to be published within our first edition of the PPE Society Magazine.

PRIZES

In addition to looking good on your UCAS, prizes will be offered to the three top essays:
1st: £150
2nd: £100
3rd: £50

Guidance

Full rules and guidance document HERE

Submit your essays

Deadline: April 27th, 2026

bottom of page