Celebrating Parkwood Primary Hackney’s Poster Competition Success
Friday 10th July 2026
Parkwood Primary Hackney welcomed London: City of Languages for a joyful assembly celebrating the creativity and multilingual spirit of its pupils. The visit marked the school’s wonderful participation in the London Festival of Languages 2026 Poster Competition – and the achievements of two pupils whose designs stood out in a very competitive field.
Philip Harding‑Esch (Vice Chair, London: City of Languages) and Nadine Chadier (ALLCoL Ambassador) led the assembly, bringing energy, encouragement and – in Nadine’s case – a touch of musical magic. They were warmly welcomed by Raquel Tola-Rego, Parkwood’s passionate languages lead, whose enthusiasm for multilingualism shines through everything she does. Bernadette Clinton, Languages Consultant for Hackney Education Partnership and member of the LCoL Steering Group, also joined the celebrations later in the day.
The assembly highlighted the achievements of:
- Nathan, whose poster was selected as a finalist and featured in the final suite of twelve designs representing the diversity of submissions across London. His work was even singled out by an MP during our Westminster display for its celebration of languages and borough identity.
- Edward, whose detailed design, featuring many languages, was recognised as a runner‑up and included in the shortlist.
Both pupils received certificates, and their posters will be showcased throughout the London Festival of Languages campaign. Parkwood Primary will also be displaying their pupils’ posters in school – a wonderful way to inspire others and celebrate linguistic pride.
During the visit, pupils and staff contributed to Parkwood’s “Tree of Languages” mural (painted by a new member of the Governing Board) , adding handprints and messages that reflect the school’s rich linguistic heritage. The atmosphere was warm, lively and full of curiosity – a testament to the ethos Raquel and her colleagues foster every day.
Philip and Nadine were deeply impressed by the school’s commitment to languages, creativity and cultural openness. As Raquel wrote afterwards, the assembly was “fantastic” and “inspiring”, with pupils talking about it throughout the day.
Bernadette later joined the Parkwood Summer Fair, where she met families, supported fundraising efforts, and added her handprint to the mural – completing the circle of celebration. A great way to get the whole Parkwood community together to end the year on a high!
Here’s a lovely photo of Raquel and Bernadette in front of the finished mural!
We look forward to featuring Parkwood Primary’s festival activities on our website, and to keeping in touch with all the great things going on in Hackney.
Congratulations once again to Nathan, Edward, and all pupils who took part. Their creativity and pride in their languages are exactly what the Festival is all about.
Here is our Flickr album for this event:
