The Young Historian project recognises and encourages classroom history and includes annual prizes for a range of ages and activities.

The organisers’ aim, supported by their main sponsor, the Historical Association, is to celebrate the quality of work produced in classrooms throughout the country all through the year, so there’s no need to start a new investigation to enter. Schools can enter the competition with individual or group work, either completed or in progress. Alternatively, some of the prize categories may stimulate new projects for your school next year.

Prizes are awarded in cash, vouchers or resource materials, depending on categories and sponsors. All the Historical Association prizes will be available again in 2005, and a special project next year will celebrate the bicentenary of the battle of Trafalgar, and the life of Nelson.

* For details, send a stamped addressed envelope to the Young Historian Project, 36 Heritage Court, Lichfield, Staffordshire WS14 9ST.

The closing date for 2004 is July 24.

Tel: 01543 301097.

Spirit of Normandy Trust prizes

* primary schools for group work on D-Day or the Normandy campaign

* key stage 3 for individual work on D-Day or the Normandy campaign

* GCSEA- level for individual work on D-Day or the Normandy campaign Historical Association prizes

* 16-19 local history prize for schools and colleges for individual enquiries

* GCSE local history prize for individual coursework

* key stage 3 local history prize for individual work

* primary local history prize for group work

* primary prize for local history and citizenship group work

* primary prize for group or individual work on the Indus valley civilisation

Mid-Trent Historical Association prizes

* best secondary school history magazine

* best primary school history magazine

Trevor James is the director of the Young Historian project