Students from 26 schools across the island are abuzz as they gear up for the second year of the island’s spelling bee competition.

The traditional match, brought back last year, culminates in the finals set for March 8.

The event was revived last May by Rena Lalgie, the former governor.

Children attending the island’s public schools, private schools and those who are home-schooled will start in the semi-final of the Verbal Victory Spelling Bee competition on Sunday.

Schools from the eastern region will compete at CedarBridge Academy.

Central region students will compete at The Berkeley Institute while those from the western region will test their spelling skills at the Bermuda College.

The top three spellers from each semi-final will advance to the final and participants will receive certificates of appreciation.

Trophies and other prizes will be awarded to the winner, first runner-up and second runner-up.

Retired Puisne Judge Norma Wade-Miller, chairwoman of the competition’s organising committee, said: “I am delighted to note the progress that has been made since the launch of this initiative.

“The planning and mounting of the competition have involved a huge team effort.”

Organisers said public attendance for the semi-finals would be by invitation only.

Schools have been allocated limited tickets for distribution to participating students’ family members and friends.