Stepping Through –
Future Uncertain; Possibilities Abound

The English Olympiad involves a guided self-study programme that aims to enrich young people’s minds, while encouraging learners to explore the English language and its literature beyond the scope of the normal school curriculum.  In so doing, the Olympiad encourages learners –

• to take responsibility for their own learning through a process of self-preparation;
• to think critically and creatively;
• to see the relevance of what they study – both to themselves and to the world around them;
• to question their assumptions and to explore alternative ways of thinking and of experiencing the world in which they live;
• to express those experiences in critically and creatively written responses to the English Olympiad examination questions;
• to substantiate their opinions, using relevant references to prescribed texts; and
• to become empowered through the rigours of academic writing.

The theme for the 2027 Olympiad is “Stepping Through – Future Uncertain; Possibilities Abound”.

During periods of transition, everything may seem overwhelming, yet wonderful, exciting, yet scary. In their journey from adolescence into adulthood, young people have varying experiences – good, bad and everything in between.  The syllabus for the 2027 English Olympiad includes texts that view ‘growing up’ from various perspectives, several written by young people experiencing their own journeys into adulthood.

Candidates will be asked to draw on their own transitional experiences, and consider what is to come. Do they have an idea of what lies ahead of them? Is it realistic to expect school-going adolescents to know what they want to do with their futures while they are still trying to navigate the multifaceted realities of today?   

In the preparatory phase of the 2027 English Olympiad, candidates will be provided with a detailed on-line Study Guide that will contain the core texts, notes and questions on the texts and the writers, and links to supplementary study material that will include several video clips.  Support will also be provided through limited use of social media through which periodic advice will be issued.

The Study Guide will be available on this website from the end of September 2026, formatted for use either on a desktop or a laptop PC, or on a hand-held device. An A4 printable option will also be provided.

It should be noted that supervising teachers are not expected to teach the study material to their candidates, but it may be appropriate for them to provide candidates with general advice, as well as assistance in setting up study groups with fellow candidates for the discussion of the texts and the questions presented in the Study Guide.

The 2026 results were officially announced on 1 July at the National Schools’ Festival in Makhanda.

Warm congratulations to every learner who participated, and a special toast to our 2026 overall winners:

• Arabella Molefi (Future Nation Schools – Fleurhof) – 1st Place, Home Language
• Gabrielle Wessels (Hoërskool Oosterlig) – 1st Place, First Additional Language

All participant certificates have been sent directly to the participating schools for distribution. Explore the full breakdown of top achievers below!

View 2026 results