This is awarded annually to a senior school pupil (or group of pupils) from an Edinburgh school who, in the opinion of the judging panel, has demonstrated exceptional initiative over the preceding 12 months.

Initiative should be interpreted in the broadest sense of the word, i.e. the facility of beginning or originating something. It should not be interpreted solely in the commercial sense.

Candidates for the prize may apply individually or in small groups or be nominated by a third party or a representative of the school they attend.

Applications must be submitted electronically by 14 December annually and will consist of a description comprising 500 to 1000 words, prepared by the individual outlining how they have demonstrated initiative over the preceding 12 months. This should be accompanied by two third- party endorsements, one from within the school and the other from outwith.

Based on the above, the judging panel, which will consist of 5 Members of the Merchant Company and City of Edinburgh Council representatives, will draw up a shortlist of applicants, who will be invited to The Merchants’ Hall to make a presentation to the panel lasting a maximum of 10 minutes and to answer questions.

On the basis of the initial submission, the presentation and the question and answer session, the panel will select the prize winners. The decision of the judging panel will be final and it will be under no obligation to award the prize if, in its view, none of the applicants meet the requirement of having demonstrated exceptional initiative. If additional applications are of a sufficiently high standard, runner up prize(s) may be awarded.

The first prize is a certificate from The Merchant Company together with a cheque for £500. The prize and certificate will be presented by The Master of The Merchant Company at an event in The Merchants’ Hall on 27 March 2013 to which guests will be invited. A shortlist of applicants will be expected to make a short presentation and the winner(s) interviewed.

For further information, please contact the Secretary & Chamberlain or click here for the terms and conditions for applying for the Prize.