The UK’s biggest story-writing competition for children aged 5 to 11 opens for entries from Tuesday 23 September until Friday 7 November at 9pm. Children are encouraged to write a story that is 500 words… or less! Children of all abilities can enter; spelling, punctuation and grammar are not marked, it’s all about the creativity. This year, Library staff are also able to submit stories on behalf of parents via the 500 Words website, once the competition opens in September.

In this special webinar you can find out how libraries can be involved, from promoting the competition, taking part as judges to running family activities to inspire creative writing. 

 With the concerning decline in the number of children writing for pleasure in the UK, 500 Words continues to inspires a love of literacy -  84% of teachers who submitted stories on behalf of students in 2024/25, felt their students were more engaged with literacy and writing as a result of taking part in the competition. 

 Join us on Tues 15th July at 2pm and find out how you can help spark creativity and inspire children to write a story they would love to read!