Frequently asked questions
What are the prizes?
Each category winner will receive a £250 voucher to spend with an educational supplier. The winning entries, as well as a runner-up for each category, will be displayed in the competition online gallery. Any other commended entries will also be displayed in the gallery.
What will the judges be looking for?
Entries that celebrate eTwinning’s 5th birthday in a creative and unique way while reflecting the eTwinning philosophy of learning, partnership, creativity, collaboration and innovation.
What are the entry categories?
There are four entry categories, based on age – 3 to 6, 7 to 10, 11 to 15 and 16 to 18. For group entries, choose the entry category based on the age of the youngest pupil.
Why do primary school entries have to be collaborative?
The judges are looking for entries which, within the context of the competition, are original and unique. In competitions like this, entries from individual pupils in the younger age categories tend to be very similar, which is why entries in the 3 to 6 and 7 to 10 categories must be from groups of two or more.
Can my whole class submit a group entry?
Yes, if you’re entering the 3 to 6 or 7 to 10 categories, but for the 11 to 15 and 16 to 18 categories entries must be by individuals.
Is there an easy way to make multiple entries?
Yes, there is. Complete the form for your first entry, but before you submit it make sure you highlight Yes’ beside ‘Submit another entry’. After you’ve submitted that first entry, the entry form will appear with the general details already filled in. All you have to do is add the details specific to the new entry.
When is the closing date?
The competition closes at midnight on 15 September 2010. Unfortunately, entries received after this time cannot be accepted.
What do I do if an entry is 3D?
Whether the entry is 2D or 3D, you need to photograph it and upload up to three digital images per entry.
How do I reduce my image file to 1Mb?
Your ICT co-ordinator or department should be able to help, or use photograph or image manipulation software, and it’s the saved size that mustn’t be more than 1Mb.
Can I just compress my image file?
No, unfortunately not, as compressed files will be disqualified.
How do I upload my entry?
Complete the entry form and click on the button marked ‘Upload image’. Then locate the relevant image. Click the button again if you want to add further images, up to a maximum of three. If you have additional entries, make sure you’ve highlighted ‘Yes’ beside ‘Submit another entry’. Finally, click the button marked ‘Submit this entry’.
Who do I contact if I have difficulty uploading my entry?
You can email birthdaycardcompetition@sparkandfuse.com with any issue that you are experiencing. Include your name and phone number and someone will get in touch to help you.
Do I have to complete an entry form for each entry?
Yes, each entry must be accompanied by its own entry form.
Do I have to include explanatory text?
No, it’s not compulsory, but you might like to provide some explanation about your entry, such as the materials you have used, in order to support the photographs.
Can I post my entry?
Entries will only be accepted electronically, and you must complete an electronic entry form and upload your entry as instructed. Unfortunately entries cannot be accepted by post.
Who do I contact if I have a question about the competition?
If you have a question that isn’t answered by this FAQ, please email birthdaycardcompetition@sparkandfuse.com.
Does it matter if my school is not a member of the eTwinning programme?
In order to enter the competition, you need to be a registered eTwinning member of www.etwinning.net before the competition closing date, which is 15 September 2010.
When will we know whether we’ve won?
You will be notified by a member of the eTwinning team, the week commencing 4 October 2010.
What will happen to the winning entries after the competition?
The winning entries, runner up entries and commended entries will all be displayed in a special online gallery. By entering the competition you agree that entries become the property of the British Council and that they may be used for promotional purposes.
CLICK HERE TO ENTER