After about three hours of travelling, we arrived at the London Aquarium to meet the representatives from Sightsavers and the Royal Academy, as well as the other lucky winners, Sofya Nikitina and Ben Spurr. I was nervous but soon forgot that when I entered the magical world of the aquarium. We watched as massive turtles trundled by and stared in wonder as the crafty shark nosed his way into the murky depths. My favourites were a troop of penguins and a sea horse.

We stopped for a lovely lunch then took a taxi to the Royal Academy. We saw our artwork and I was really pleased because I have never had my art displayed in a gallery before! The theme for the competition was ‘I Care About…’ and my painting was about Japan and the way the tsunami had turned it upside down. I used dried paint for a collage effect and I tried to make it very bright. I used symbols for the people, not actual life-like drawings.

The presentation room, where we were awarded our prizes, was amazing. I took my seat and Professor Maurice Cockrill RA, a famous artist and former Keeper of the Royal Academy, told us all about the history of the Academy.

He and Sightsavers gave out the certificates and prizes. I felt very proud! It also made me think much more about Sightsavers, a wonderful charity which helps save people’s sight in other countries. I felt lucky I could see. I clapped very hard when my teacher received her well-deserved prize.

Before we had to catch the train home we managed to have a look at the Degas exhibition. I really enjoyed my day and will remember it forever.

Words by Lexie Wilson