Kent Kids Invited to Celebrate Local Heroes in Big Writing Challenge
Kent children and young people are being urged to take part in an exciting new creative writing competition all about “local heroes”. Organised by Kent County Council’s Reconnect programme in partnership with the KM Charity Team, the contest aims to unleash young imaginations and boost literacy.
Who Can Enter and What to Submit
- Open to kids and teens living or attending school in Kent
- Three age categories: Key Stage 1 (Years 1-2), Key Stage 2 (Years 3-6), and Key Stages 3 & 4 (Years 7-11)
- Entries accepted in various formats – short stories, poems, plays, essays, or sound recordings
- Maximum 500 words per submission
The competition launched today, and all entries must be in by 31 May. Winners will be revealed at a special awards event featuring a visit from award-winning children’s author Nick Butterworth, famed for Percy the Park Keeper.
Prizes and Praise
Winners will each collect a framed certificate and commemorative book. The overall champions will bag a unique glass trophy and win a funded class trip courtesy of KCC.
“I hope as many Kent children as possible take up this challenge and enter the competition,” said Shellina Prendergast, KCC’s Cabinet Member for Education and Skills.
“It’s a fantastic chance to spark creativity and a love of literacy. We’re excited to see what the kids come up with and hope this competition becomes an annual highlight.”
Mike Ward from the KM Charity Team added: “Literacy is at the heart of everything we do. Being part of Kent’s Big Writing Challenge is thrilling. If it inspires even one child to love reading and writing, it’s a huge success.”
Get Involved Today
The Reconnect programme, launched in April 2021 to help youngsters catch up post-pandemic, is funding the contest. The KM Charity Team is handling logistics, including judging and event organisation.
For all the details and how to enter, visit www.kmcharityteam.co.uk/kbwc.
