The winning entry, a Steelite plate manufactured in the 1970s, remains in daily use at the school serving students for nearly five decades. The competition, launched to celebrate the legacy and quality of Steelite's products, invited customers to submit photos and stories of their oldest Steelite ware still in use.
Ben Tearall, vice president of sales for Steelite-Utopia, said: "We've really been impressed by the entries we've received for our first ever Oldest Plate Competition. Blackfriars Academy could not be a more deserving winner.
"Our winning plate has served practically a lifetime at its Blackfriars home already. Here's to many more years in service! We hope the £5,000 prize alleviates some of the financial pressure the school faces, and we're proud to reinforce its connection to the Steelite-Utopia family."
The winning plate's Royal Doulton Hotelware England Steelite backstamp indicates that it was made in the late 1970s. Steelite hoped the competition would reveal the variety of stories from users of its products.
Jamie Campbell, headteacher at Blackfriars Academy, added: "One thing we're really proud of in this school is our link to the local community. We are absolutely delighted to have won Steelite's Oldest Plate Competition.
“At a time when SEND schools like ours are facing increasing financial pressures this prize is more than just a win - it's a reminder of the strength of our community and the value of our history. The story behind the plate, and the connection to Jackie and her family, makes this moment even more special. We're proud to have such close links to Steelite and are grateful to them for supporting our school in such a meaningful way."