Top National Prize for Yarm School’s Student Magazine at Shine Awards

Yarm School claimed top honours as its student-run magazine The Dovecote was awarded the prestigious Harrison Cup at the 2025 Shine School Media Awards.

Held in the historic surroundings of Stationers’ Hall in London, the event celebrates the very best of student journalism across the UK.

Lead Editors Danai M and Sarah A, accompanied by English Teacher Miss Antonia Breslin, travelled to the capital to represent Yarm. They joined young creatives from schools nationwide for a day of industry-led workshops and prizegiving.

The programme included sessions with media professionals such as BBC broadcaster Kath Melandri and panellists from publishing house Hurst. These sessions challenged students to think critically about bias in journalism, layout design, and the importance of audience engagement in a fast-changing media landscape.

Throughout the day, The Dovecote received widespread acclaim, achieving a record eight shortlistings, which is the most in the school’s history. The 72 page magazine showcases a wide range of pupil articles, poems, stories and photographs. The student-led political podcast The House of Comments was shortlisted for the Peter Day Award for Best Audio.

The editorial team clinched a win for Best Business and Marketing Strategy, with judges praising the entry’s “clear forward vision” and “textbook professionalism”. They commended its strong branding and strategic clarity, remarking that it “would stand up very well against the marketing plans of many existing SMEs.”

However, the crowning moment of the day came with the announcement of the Harrison Cup; the overall award for the most outstanding school publication across all mediums. The judges praised The Dovecote as “a magazine that ticks so many boxes,” highlighting not only its high-quality publication but also its “outstanding marketing strategy” and “strong branding design.” They commended the students of Yarm School for their “thoroughness and dedication,” noting that these elements elevated the entry into “a class of its own.”

Huw Williams, Headmaster of Yarm School, said: “This is an extraordinary achievement and a true reflection of the talent, passion and dedication of our pupils and Miss Antonia Breslin – over fifty pupils contributed to the production. The Dovecote is more than a magazine, it’s a vibrant platform for student voice and enables pupils to explore important themes and ideas and share these with the world.

“While the magazine is one of over 60 extra-curricular activities offered during timetabled activities slots, the pupils go above and beyond, investing countless hours into writing, editing, and curating each edition. This national recognition is truly deserved for their hard work and passion.”

Danai M and Sarah A, lead editors, said: “Working on the fifth edition of The Dovecote was challenging but hugely rewarding. When the Harrison Cup was announced, we honestly didn’t expect to hear Yarm School’s name – it felt surreal seeing our picture appear on the screen.

“What made the magazine come together wasn’t any one person, but the mix of our different strengths and the support of the whole team. Along the way, we not only produced something we’re proud of, but also built a friendship that started from little more than a passing nod in the corridor. More than anything, we hope The Dovecote continues to show what can be achieved when people bring their different skills and ideas together.”