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Four Westminster City School students, Joshua, Benas, Daniel and Michael, have completed Platform+, a year-long academic programme run by neighbouring independent school Westminster School, based at Dean’s Yard which is just a short walk from Westminster City School.

The programme is primarily for high-achieving KS4 students in Year 10 from London state schools, the programme offers specialist teaching in Liberal Arts or STEM through Saturday classes and a summer school. Students also attend workshops with professionals, visit cultural institutions and receive guidance on their university applications.

Joshua, who joined the Liberal Arts stream after being encouraged to apply studied Economics, Anthropology, Art History and Russian, which are all subjects he has never studied before. He had the chance to experience workshops with Sky News journalist Jenny Kleeman and James Darley, co-founder of Teach First, as well as visits to Tate and the British Museum. He also took part in the National Theatre’s New Views programme.

Joshua spoke about his time at Platform+, saying:

"Platform+ has broadened my academic interests and improved my knowledge and current grades, noticeably in History, which I now hope to study at A Level. Studying Economics has also opened my eyes to potential university courses and careers. I'd say that the programme has encouraged me to consider universities such as Oxford or Cambridge, and eventually a career in politics or as an economist.

"I’m really grateful to Miss World for encouraging me to apply and for the support I’ve received from Platform+ and Westminster City School."

Joshua also received a 'Highly Commended' award in the 2026 Spark Awards which is a creative writing competition organised through the WriteSpace initiative and supported by the Kartik Foundation. His essay examined the political cartoons of James Gillray, exploring how satire was used to criticise those in power and influence public opinion throughout different time periods.

Joshua was one of four prize winners from his Platform+ cohort of 35 students. He received £75 and a book, alongside an invitation to speak at a National Year of Reading event at the Royal Albert Hall in 2027.

Speaking about his achievement, Joshua said:

"I entered because I wanted to explore my interest in British Politics and History. I was delighted to receive Highly Commended!"

Another Westminster City School student Benas, took part in the STEM stream, studying Physics, Chemistry and Biology through a range of practical activities.

Benas said:

"We mainly studied Physics, Chemistry and Biology and did lots of practical work, including dissecting cockroaches. It helped me deepen my understanding of science and see what studying these subjects at A Level might be like."

As well as the academic sessions, the programme provided students with advice on Sixth Form applications, entrance examinations, and university applications including support from Westminster School’s admissions tutors and additional preparation through Keystone Tutors.

Congratulations to Joshua, Benas, Daniel and Michael on completing Platform+, and a special well done to Joshua on his 'Highly Commended' award in the Spark Awards.