Pupil's winning Christmas card design inspired by her Grandma

The winner of the University of Hull’s Christmas card competition for local schools was inspired by her grandma’s work as a nurse to create her winning design.

In partnership with Hull & East Yorkshire Children’s University, Professor Susan Lea, Vice-Chancellor of the University, invited hundreds of children from 12 local primary schools to draw a special Christmas card for her with Florence Nightingale as the theme.

Professor Lea said: “Although the theme was chosen before the onset of the pandemic to celebrate the 200^th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth – it has proved to be a very fitting choice – and gives us the chance to reflect once more on the dedication and commitment of those in the nursing profession.

“In addition to an eye-catching design, the winning card has a poignant message for these times with Santa’s hat adding a hint of Christmas festivity.”

“Once again, we received a tremendous response to the competition. There is no doubt that we have hundreds of talented children in our region and it was a difficult decision to choose an overall winner – as there were so many attractive designs.”

“I would like to thank all the schools, teachers and pupils who have taken part in the competition and have honoured Florence Nightingale and the work of our nurses through their creative designs.”

The winner, Kornelia Duda, a year 6 pupil at St Richard’s VC Academy, was surprised by her success:

Kornelia, aged 10, said: “I was really excited about winning; I just didn't expect it!

"The inspiration for my card came from my grandma because she's a nurse – like Florence Nightingale – and she loves Christmas!”

Natasha Barley, Director at Hull & East Yorkshire Children’s University, said:

“Our charity, Hull & East Yorkshire Children’s University, inspires children to find their talents and pursue a career using them. I have no doubt that Kornelia will be doing something creative in the future.”

Emma Cook, Acting Head at St Richard’s VC Academy, said:

“We value working in partnership with the Children's University and we are absolutely thrilled that one of our pupils was this year's winner.

“We were amazed at the quality of work produced this year at St Richard's Academy and any of our finalists would have been worthy winners. Kornelia's creative flair shines through; we are immensely proud of her achievement especially during this challenging year.”

Congratulations to Amelia Watson, aged 9, Year 5, St James Church of England Primary School, who was the runner-up in the competition.