Michael Li was thrilled to receive a high commendation for his economics essay in the John Locke Institute Essay Competition. Michael received his award from Martin Cox, Director of the John Locke Institute, at a gala dinner held at Oxford University. Michael did extremely well to be nominated as a finalist as his was one of a large number of entries received from no less than 101 different countries.

The John Locke Institute encourages young people to cultivate the characteristics that turn good students into great writers: independent thought, depth of knowledge, clear reasoning, critical analysis and persuasive style. Entering an essay in this competition gives students the chance to have their work assessed by experts. All of the essay prizes are judged by academics from the University of Oxford. Michael’s chosen section, Economics, was on ‘The Gender Pay Gap’.

He said: “I was very honoured to be invited to the Gala evening in Lady Margaret Hall to receive this prestigious award, especially as my dream is to study Economics & Management at Oxford when I leave Aldenham.”