University launches Young Person’s Writing Award with Literature Festival and City Council

The University is proud to announce the launch of the first-ever Young Person’s Writing Award, delivered through its publishing house, Ripple Bed Press, in collaboration with the Wolverhampton Literature Festival and the City of Wolverhampton Council’s Libraries Service.

Celebrating emerging literary voices across the region, the award invites young people aged 11 to 18 to submit original, unpublished writing responding to the theme ‘Reading Places.’ Entrants are encouraged to interpret the theme in any creative direction: imagining new landscapes, exploring meaningful locations, celebrating hometown identity, or embarking on imaginative journeys through poetry, fiction, non-fiction, or hybrid forms.

Championing young writers in the region

Dr R. M. Francis, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for Creative and Professional Writing at the University of Wolverhampton, is leading the initiative on behalf of the University. In addition to overseeing the award, University lecturers Dr Kerry Hadley-Pryce and Dr Francis will deliver free writing workshops for schools, sixth forms, and colleges throughout the submission period to help nurture creative talent across the West Midlands. Educators can enquire or book via ripplebedpress@gmail.com.

Competition Entry Details

Submissions are welcome in any genre or form, provided they align to the following guidelines:

• Poetry: Up to 40 lines
• Fiction / Non-fiction: 250–500 words
• Format: Word document, 12pt Times New Roman
• Include: Name, Age, Email Address, Postal Address
• Submit to: ripplebedpress@gmail.com
• Deadline: Midnight, 30 April 2026

The University and its partners hope the award will encourage young writers to engage with place, imagination, and identity from fresh and bold perspectives.

Publication and Awards

Winning entries will be published in the Reading Places Anthology by Ripple Bed Press. Winners will also be invited to present their work at a celebratory launch event, where they will receive a selection of books or vouchers. Details of the event will be announced closer to the date.

University of Wolverhampton Statement

Dr R. M. Francis, Senior Lecturer and Programme Leader for Creative and Professional Writing at the University of Wolverhampton said:

“Supporting young people to develop their creative confidence is central to our mission as a civic university. We are delighted to partner with Wolverhampton Literature Festival and the City Council to provide a platform for aspiring writers across the region. The Young Person’s Writing Award not only celebrates imagination but strengthens our commitment to developing the next generation of storytellers, thinkers, and cultural leaders.”