Mark Ramotar, centre, of Robinson O’Neal Memorial Primary School receives his trophy from Education Minister Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL), left, for winning the 2023 National Spelling Bee for Primary Schools. Photo: Facebook

Orrisa Thomas of St George’s Primary School placed second in the 2023 National Spelling Bee for Primary Schools. Photo: Facebook

Amrita Singh, centre, of Enis Adams Primary School placed third in the 2023 National Spelling Bee for Primary Schools. Photo: Facebook

The finals, which saw 13 students advancing from the preliminary round of 30, were held at the New Testament Church of God- International Worship Centre in Baughers Bay on Wednesday, June 7, 2023.

After many rounds that saw the prepared list of words being exhausted, it was down to Ramotar, Orrisa Thomas of St George’s Primary School and Amrita Singh of Enis Adams Primary School.

Singh was first eliminated after spelling ammonia incorrectly and after another round, Thomas faltered on the word ‘meadow’.

Purpose of Spelling Bee

According to Education Officer and coordinator of the event Mrs Heida Selwood, the aim of the competition is to promote students’ knowledge of proper word usage and pronunciation, expand srudent’s vocabulary, encourage students to strive for excellence in spelling and provide an opportunity for students to meet with their peers from other school so they can engage in friendly competitions.

The other students making the finals were Richard Turnbull of Agape Total Life Academy, Mariah Jackson of Alexandrina Maduro Primary School, Jezaan Demming of Bregado Flax Primary School, Ajaaii Malone of Enis Adams Primary School, Ahmaya John of Francis Lettsome Primary School, Khymarri Davis of Francis Lettsome Primary School, J’Sadie Graham of Jost van Dyke Primary School, Christopher Lyew of Ciboney Centre for Excellence, Jaantje Case of Leonora Delville Primary School, and Ka’Ori Augustine of St George’s Primary.

Education Minister Hon Sharie B. de Castro (AL) was on hand to witness the competition and also assisted in the presentation of prizes.