Forty learners from five schools put their spelling skills to the test during the Interschool Spelling Bee Competition 2026, hosted by Learning Right Elementary School (LRES) recently.
The competition brought together learners from Learning Right Elementary School, Private School Swakopmund, One Three Montessori, Riverside Private School and Walvis Bay Gymnasium for a day of learning, confidence-building and healthy competition.
Speaking to Namib Times, a representative of the host school said the learners impressed organisers with their preparation and courage in standing before an audience. Although there were a few tears along the way, the learners received plenty of encouragement from those present, creating a supportive atmosphere throughout the competition. The level of preparation was so high that the organisers exhausted the original list of 349 words and had to move on to extended rounds featuring unfamiliar words.
Six of the ten learners representing Learning Right Elementary School made it into the final top ten, an achievement that brought particular pride to the host school. Lilianna Losper of Walvis Bay Gymnasium took first place, followed by Rubri Kanyetu of Learning Right Elementary School in second place. Zandro Fortuin of Riverside Private School secured third place. Rubri’s performance was a highlight for the host school. Described as an avid reader and strong speller, the learner demonstrated the skills needed to compete against some of the strongest young spellers from the participating schools.
Fairness and consistency were also important aspects of the event. Ms Ailly Namupala, who has experience with the National Spelling Bee, served as the independent word caller. Judges from the participating schools worked together to help ensure that the competition was judged fairly and consistently. According to the organisers, the event ran smoothly and offered an opportunity for schools to work together while allowing learners to learn from one another. Beyond the final results, the competition highlighted the importance of preparation, perseverance and confidence among young learners.
Standing in front of an audience and spelling unfamiliar words can be challenging, but the encouragement shown throughout the event helped create an environment in which learners could test their abilities and grow. The organisers thanked the participating schools and learners for contributing to a successful competition, which celebrated not only spelling ability but also courage, sportsmanship and a shared love of learning.
Competition results
First place: Lilianna Losper – Walvis Bay Gymnasium
Second place: Rubri Kanyetu – Learning Right Elementary School
Third place: Zandro Fortuin – Riverside Private School
By Eileen van der Schyff
