The YWF tears down barriers as it raises aspirations for education and learning
Open to all First Story schools, our annual festival brings up to
450 students and teachers together at Cambridge University, for an inspiring day-long event including keynote speakers, book signings, workshops and readings.
Acclaimed writers who have appeared at the Young Writers’ Festival include Michael Morpurgo, Philip Pullman, Malorie Blackman, Mark Haddon, Jackie Kay, Patrick Ness and Juno Dawson.
Why attend?
The Young Writers’ Festival is a unique opportunity for young people to engage with literary world conventions, often for the first time.
The Festival celebrates young writers’ creative expression, as much as established artists’ work, with students encouraged to write and share their own pieces.
There’s also an affordable book shop, with new copies of acclaimed novels, poetry and YA favourites for only £1 each.
It was fun to meet the writers and understand how they make their books. The next day when I was back in school we were writing poetry and I remembered how the students from other schools were reading out their work at the festival and it made it easier. I feel like I was able to write better poetry because of the visit.
STUDENT ATTENDEE
Each First Story school is offered up to 21 places, with tickets costing £5 each.
Schools must register in advance. Please contact us if you need to make special arrangements or if you have questions about your school’s eligibility.
Teachers’ Views
81%
felt attendance had improved students’ writing skills
93%
said the Festival had made students feel more confident
100%
believed the Festival introduced new writers
