Sounds are all around us - from the natural melodies of birdsong and rushing streams, to the human sounds of talking and making music, and even mechanical noises from cars, aircraft, or lawnmowers. While some sounds bring joy, others can be unwelcome - these are considered noise. Children experience noise in everyday life, whether from traffic, airplanes, or even classmates in the playground.

The competition encourages children to reflect on these sounds and express them creatively. Participants can submit a hand-made drawing, picture, patchwork, collage, or similar artwork that illustrates both sounds they enjoy and noises they find less pleasant.

Who Can Enter

The competition is open to primary school children in two age categories:

• Category 1: Ages 7 to 9
• Category 2: Ages 10 to 11

Children may enter individually or in groups of up to four.

Prizes

Winning entries will receive:

• £25 for each winning child
• £500 for their school or education group
• An engraved crystal trophy for the winning school or group

Additionally, the winner(s) and one friend, along with one teacher and one parent/guardian per child, will be invited to visit their nearest science centre, such as Winchester Science Centre, Glasgow Science Centre, or the University of Salford. Reasonable travel and subsistence costs will be covered.

The winning school or education group will also have the opportunity to host a STEM Ambassador from the Institute of Acoustics, who will present the award and share insights into working in the field of acoustics.

How to Enter

To submit an entry, please:

1. Take photographs of your artwork, including one complete view and additional close-ups of details.

2. Email the photographs to primary@ioa.org.uk with the subject line: “IOA Competition for Primary School Aged Children Category [1 or 2 depending on age] Entry from [Pupil Name(s)], [School or Education Group Name]”

3. Include the name and age of participating pupils and the contact details of the school or education group.

Please do not send physical artworks.

Deadline

Entries must be submitted by 31st July 2026. Submissions will be judged by a panel of experts, and the panel’s decision will be final.

For full details on entry requirements and terms and conditions, please see the attached PDFs.