Hundreds of children take part in our first creative writing competition

Nearly 700 youngsters took part in our first creative writing competition, aimed at inspiring children to get excited about reading and writing.

The competition was open to primary schools across Essex with children being encouraged to bring their characters to life through illustration.

There were gold and silver awards in three age categories, plus awards for the most creative character, most original illustration, most imaginative setting and the most captivating plot.

Prizes were given out at a celebration evening, during which local author and stand-up comic James Campbell read out extracts from some of his favourite entries.

Clare Ruffle, our Arts Education Officer, said: “We have been overwhelmed by the response we have received from hundreds of children from across Essex. It felt like Christmas had come early, opening wonderful envelopes packed full of imaginative stories and beautiful illustrations.”

To launch the competition, our arts education team organised an ‘inspiration day’ for five local primary schools. Over 150 children attended and took part in workshops run by James, illustrator, Rob Jones and poet, Molly Naylor.

To help children develop their imaginations and ideas, James shared the technique he uses when writing his stories. Called the ‘Labels Technique’, it will feature in his new book ‘Write Your Own Book’, which is due out next year.