North London Grammar School (NLGS) took part in the International Greenwich Olympiad (IGO) 2025, which began on Monday, June 23 with an opening ceremony at Oxford Town Hall, welcoming more than 500 students and 186 supervisors from 53 countries.
Over the course of the week, students presented 356 projects across 13 categories to a panel of more than 175 expert jurors.
Councillor Andrew Gant joins students for Olympiad’s grand Oxford opening (Image: North London Grammar School)
A spokesman from North London Grammar School said: “The International Greenwich Olympiad offered a unique platform that profoundly impacted its participants by fostering creativity, critical thinking, and international collaboration.
“For many students, it marked their first visit to the UK and Oxford, creating lasting memories that inspired lifelong academic ambition and cultural appreciation.”
The opening ceremony featured speeches from dignitaries including figures from Oxford University, local government, and international embassies.
Ben Higgins joins dignitaries at student-led international showcase (Image: North London Grammar School)
The Global Showcase Parade saw students carrying their national flags.
Among the guests were the Sheriff of Oxford John May, Oxford city councillor Andrew Gant, Oxfordshire County Council cabinet member Ben Higgins, and Her Excellency Katerina Stavreska, ambassador of the Republic of North Macedonia.
Also in attendance were representatives from the Sierra Leone High Commission, Mr Thavone Singharaj, deputy head of mission at the Embassy of the Lao, Professor Anne Watson from the University of Oxford, and education advocate Lady Guli Sheikh.
Throughout the week, students presented their projects during the exhibition and judging day, took part in a cultural night, and joined in social activities designed to build friendships and networks.
The Olympiad concluded with an award ceremony on Friday, June 27.
The IGO aimed to promote global education, innovation, and cultural exchange among young people.
It encouraged creativity, critical thinking, and international collaboration by offering a platform for students to showcase their ideas and learn from peers around the world.
For many participants, the event marked their first visit to the UK and to Oxford.