Author: thegsaljournal

The student-led academic journal of the Grammar School at Leeds, showcasing passion, curiosity and creativity.

‘Millions in Africa are poorer today because of aid; misery and poverty have not ended but increased’ (DAMBISA MOYO). What do you think?

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Hannah (Year 12) Editor's note: Hannah wrote this essay during her time in Year 12 at GSAL. It was entered into the annual Minds Underground Essay Competition. Hannah is now studying Geography at the University of Durham. CPD Dambisa Moyo argues in her book ‘Dead Aid’ (Moyo, 2010), that foreign aid has failed to promote … Continue reading ‘Millions in Africa are poorer today because of aid; misery and poverty have not ended but increased’ (DAMBISA MOYO). What do you think?

Must the law always be obeyed?

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Raina (Year 12) Editor's note: During her time in Year 12, Raina successfully submitted this essay to the annual Northeastern University Humanities Essay Competition. Although she didn't go on and win the competition, Raina was shortlisted as a finalist. CPD Historically, the law has been perpetually undeserving to be followed. Never wholly, but a small … Continue reading Must the law always be obeyed?

In your view, what is the most influential written document and why?

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Diva (Year 9 ) Editor's note: Year 9 student Diva, now in Year 11, submitted this essay to the annual Perse School Aristotelian Award essay competition. As the judges noted, "[We are] delighted to announce that Diva [was] shortlisted for the Arts/Humanities category for the Y9 Aristotelian Award competition we have run this academic year. … Continue reading In your view, what is the most influential written document and why?

Legislating lies: What are the laws criminalising misinformation?

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Emilia (Year 12) Editor's note: Year 12 student Emilia has aspirations to become a journalist. She has written this short but informative article for publication in the GSAL Journal to help hone her journalistic writing skills. CPD Technology is advancing every day, with the use of AI and spread of ‘fake news’ within the media … Continue reading Legislating lies: What are the laws criminalising misinformation?

What are the drivers of the global moves away from free trade and how should the UK respond?

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Tehan (Year 12) Editor's note: Year 12 student Tehan, now in Year 13, wrote this essay for submission to the FCDO Next Generation Economics 2025 competition. They chose to answer the question: While free trade has been the dominant view in the last decades, protectionist policies are on the rise. What are the drivers of … Continue reading What are the drivers of the global moves away from free trade and how should the UK respond?

Does free trade actually benefit economies of developing nations?

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Rahul (Year 12) Editor's note: Year 12 student Rahul, now in Year 13, wrote this essay on free trade - little did he know how relevant it would be at the time of publication in May 2025, with Trump's tariffs and global trade arguably at a crossroads! CPD The impact of free trade on developing … Continue reading Does free trade actually benefit economies of developing nations?

What legal issues might arise from prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after 2008?

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Tatiana (Year 12) Editor's note: Year 12 student Tatiana submitted this essay into the prestigious Robert Walker Prize for Essays in Law by Trinity College, Cambridge. This essay demonstrates strong academic writing skills, particularly in its structured argumentation and engagement with legal precedent. The discussion effectively balances ethical concerns—such as privacy and autonomy—with practical enforcement … Continue reading What legal issues might arise from prohibiting the sale of tobacco products to anyone born after 2008?

‘A whole is that which has a beginning, middle, and end.’ (Aristotle). Are all dramatic works ‘whole’?

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Theo (Year 12 student) Editor's note: Theo researched, wrote and submitted this exceptional academic essay to the Gould Prize for Essays in English Literature, organised by Trinity College, Cambridge, during his time in Year 12 at GSAL. This essay was awarded Highly Commended and Theo was invited to visit Trinity College in person. Theo is … Continue reading ‘A whole is that which has a beginning, middle, and end.’ (Aristotle). Are all dramatic works ‘whole’?