British Essay Writing Contests
Introduction
Essay writing contests have a long tradition in the United Kingdom, with some extending back over a century. Participating in these contests provides aspiring writers an opportunity to showcase their talents, win cash prizes or scholarships, and get recognition from established organizations. This article will explore some of the major and most prestigious essay competitions based in Britain, their histories, entry criteria, judging processes, and notable past winners. Read on to learn more about these opportunities for students and writers to gain experience, improve their skills, and advance their careers through contesting the written word.
The Times/Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year Awards
One of the highest profile and longest running writing contests in the UK is The Times/Sunday Times Young Writer of the Year Awards. Established in 1979, it is open to those aged 18-30 from across Britain and Ireland. Entrants submit an original piece of writing in one of four categories – fiction, poetry, general non-fiction, or criticism. There are first prizes of £3,000 for each category as well as runner up awards. Judges are distinguished authors and previous winners include Zoe Strachan, Eleanor Catton, and Jessie Burton. In addition to the prestige and recognition, winning often leads to publishing deals and career opportunities in journalism, screenwriting, and academia.
The BBC National Short Story Award
Broadcasting media giant BBC sponsors this notable award for short stories. Established in 2005, it is open to UK and Irish residents aged 18 and over. Entries should be original, unpublished works between 1,000-3,000 words. Standout aspects include a £15,000 prize for the winner, plus winning entries are broadcast on BBC Radio 4 and published by Comma Press. Past winners have gone on to publish multiple books and see their stories adapted for TV and film. Judges seek emotionally engaging stories with intelligence and craftsmanship. Notable past winners are Louise Savidge, Chiwan Choi, and Deirdre Madden.
Wasafiri New Writing Prize
This prize aims to encourage and reward emerging writers from a minority ethnic background living in the UK. Sponsored by Wasafiri magazine, it has categories for flash fiction, short stories, poetry and experimental writing. Entries can be on any theme or topic. Prize money is £1,000 for the overall winner and £500 for category winners. Winning pieces are published and promote participants at the start of their careers. A distinguished panel of judges select pieces that excel in creative risk-taking, craft, and representation of minority perspectives. Previous winners Zaffar Kunial and Musa Okwonga have gone on to great acclaim.
National Flash Fiction Day Competition
Celebrating very short works of fiction, this contest is part of an annual event held each June to promote flash fiction as an art form. Open to UK residents aged 13+, entries must be exactly 100 words. First prize includes publication in an anthology and £250. Shortlisted pieces are also published online and shared widely, giving exposure to promising new writers. Judging emphasizes originality, economy of language, and ability to pack an emotional punch within an ultra-short form. Contests directors Rachel Fenton and Tom Vowler aim to attract both experienced and novice flash writers to push the constraints of the format.
Foyle Young Poets of the Year Award
This prestigious poetry award has launched the careers of many notable UK poets since its founding in 2002. Open to ages 11-17 and 18-24, winners receive £2500 and £5000 prizes respectively. Entry is free and poets can submit up to two previously unpublished poems. Judging is blind to focus solely on literary merit. Judges are renowned poets who look for fresh voices exploring both craft and meaningful themes. Past champions include Hollie McNish, Daisy Lafarge, and Raymond Antrobus, all now published authors. As in other categories, this award brings poets deserved recognition early in their careers.
Segora Poetry Prize
One of the main prizes open to poets worldwide is the annual Segora Poetry Prize. Run in partnership between Segora radio based in Kent and the Centre for Poetry in London, it aims to unearth great new talent from both emerging and established poets. Entrants can submit one or two poems in any style on any theme. First prize is £1000, with prize money down to sixth place. The judging panel includes publishers, professors, and past prize-winners. Winning ensures international exposure on the radio and literary websites. Notable past participants are Roger McGough, Michael Symmons Roberts, and Ian Duhig.
London Short Story Prize
This competition, organized by London Short Story Festival and arts publication Litro, champions short fiction set in or commenting on London specifically. Open yearly to adults worldwide, stories should be maximum 3000 words and previously unpublished. Judges seek vivid evocations of life in London while still appealing to worldwide readers. In addition to £1000 first prize, other shortlisted entrants see their stories published on the festival website and via partners. Past winners like Daljit Nagra and Lucy Caldwell have gone on to publishing success. The entry criteria of London-centered themes makes it a unique contest to highlight the city.
Conclusion
British essay writing contests have a long and venerable tradition, with some dating back over a century. They provide excellent opportunities for students and emerging writers in the UK and beyond to showcase their talents, get hands-on experience competing, and potentially launch new careers. By joining in competitions like the examples outlined above, participants stand to gain recognition, relationships with established figures in the industry, cash prizes, publication credits, and more. Making the most of opportunities like these remains vital for aspiring wordsmiths seeking to advance in their craft.
Andrew Stroud