Exeter Cathedral is launching the Young Historian of the Year – a new competition to find talented history enthusiasts in the South West of England.
Launching on Wednesday 1 April 2026, the competition is open to people aged 11-18 who live or study in Devon and Cornwall. The competition invites young people to show their love for history by sharing their own unique research on their favourite part of British History, while also developing their research skills.
The first stage of the competition will allow participants to share their history interests by answering a series of questions, outlining their favourite historical period, top historical site and introducing their chosen research topic. Those who progress onto the following phase will be able to delve into this topic more in stage two by undertaking a more in-depth research project. Entrants may present their research either through a written essay or digitally via the form of a podcast or video presentation, to allow the competition to be inclusive for all learning styles.
Lis Spencer, Community Outreach and Partnerships Officer, at Exeter Cathedral says this is an excellent opportunity for young people to show off their love for history:
“Young people – we want you to show off your enjoyment for history as well as your skills as a historian. This is your opportunity to share your enthusiasm for the subject. You don’t need to have any previous research experience as we will put on some workshops to help you to develop your research skills.”
“Whether you’re into Romans, Vikings, Tudors, or something more modern – you can choose whatever topic fascinates you the most, as long as it fits in with the theme of British history.”
The competition has already received a number of endorsements. Rebecca Larson, founder of Tudors Dynasty & Beyond podcast shares her enthusiasm for the initiative:
“Young Historian of the Year gives young historians the chance to do what really matters – follow their curiosity, dig into the past, and start asking the kinds of questions that challenge what we think we know. That’s where real history begins.”
Awards will be given throughout the course of the competition, including the ‘Passion for the Past Award’ which recognises exceptional enthusiasm during stage one of the competition, and the ‘South West Awards’, which will be given to the best presentations focussing on the history of the South West, particularly Devon and Cornwall. There are also awards for both the best Written and Digital Presentations across three age groups: 11-14, 15-16, and 17-18 year olds.
–––
Participants can find out more and register their place here.