A MASSIVE thank you to the Rotary Club of Four Marks and Medstead who are sponsoring a local writing competition aimed at inspiring young children to write. It’s great to see organisations getting involved in the promotion of the written word.
The competition that has so far brought in over 100 entries is running with the theme: ‘Olympic Dreams’ or ‘Olympic Spirit’, and a local subtheme of ‘Inspiration’.
Although the deadline for entries has now lapsed, all entrants had to be born between 01/09/2000 and 31/08/2004 and produce a piece of poetry (up to 400 words) or prose (up to 500 words). Four local schools were involved. These include Chawton, Four Marks, Medstead and St. Mary’s at Bentworth. Congratulations to all of those who have taken part so far.
Certificates will be presented to all participants, as well as book vouchers to the first, second and third place in each of the two categories.
I was delighted to be asked to join the judging panel some time ago and look forward with great anticipation to start reading through all the entries.
Madaboutsnailbooks is all about inspiring children to write; we like to encourage children to draw and learn how to illustrate their work. I can’t wait to make a start on reading the entries. I know it’s going to be tough because I’m sure there’ll be a gem in every piece of writing … thankfully, there will be guidelines to follow, things that will help the judges to pull out the best pieces.
The competition, which is part of a national event sponsored by Rotary International in Great Britain and Ireland, is a preliminary event. Finalists will go forward to a district national stage.
Thanks to Lisa Hillan, former English teacher and Youth Opportunities/’New Generations’ Officer for organising this wonderful event, along with Helen Allen-Rogers, President of Four Marks and Medstead Rotary and fellow competition judge.
Follow this blog if you’d like to find out what surprises we have in store and who gets through to the next stage.
With happy writing thoughts to you all.
Sarah