On International Literacy Day (Tuesday 8th September), the world’s leading learning company, Pearson, is launching its second national writing competition - My Twist on a Tale: Everyday Heroes, which encourages 4-19 year-olds to let their imagination run wild as they put pen to paper and write a story based on an everyday hero.

Following an extraordinary year of disruption, the competition aims to empower children and young people from key stage one to key stage five, to get creative and reflect their own personality, location and experiences as they bring their local crusader to life.

It could be a story about a hero in their local community, a key worker making a difference during the COVID-19 pandemic, a campaigner, a family member or friend that inspires them or even a hero from their imagination. And who says the hero needs to be a human? It could be a story about a guide dog or even a cat that comes to save the day!

This free competition gives children and young people the opportunity to become the protagonist of their very own story and write their own tales of people who have made a difference to them, shining a light on the positive stories that have emerged throughout the year. 

Why? Diversity, inclusion and relatability matter. They matter in the literature we consume and the books, poetry and plays we put in front of our children. From early stages to adulthood - people should feel represented in the literature they read and the stories they write. 

Katy Lewis, Head of English, Drama and Languages at Pearson said: “At Pearson, we work to empower those working with children, young people and adult learners to explore the different dimensions of literacy, improve outcomes and inspire a life-long love of reading and writing.

“We believe that at whatever age - from early stages to adulthood - people should feel represented in the literature they read and the stories they write which is why we want to empower children and young people to become the creator of their own super-human stories as they bring their everyday hero to life.

“While the winners will see their works published as a collection of short stories for all to read, we hope everyone who takes part enjoys finding their voice, expressing themselves freely and having fun along the way!”

There will be 16 winners in total, one from every key stage and region across the UK. The winning tales will be compiled into an illustrated, downloadable book for everyone to enjoy. The winners will also receive a hard copy of the book so they can see their stories bought to life in print!

The competition is open now, with entries closing on Friday 27th November 2020 when an expert judging panel will decide on the winning stories. In addition to written entries, audio entries will also be accepted for those with special access requirements.

Visit the website to find more information on the competition and how to register or follow on Twitter @PearsonSchools, Facebook @PearsonPrimary and Instagram @pearsonlitandeng

Good luck!

#MyTwistOnATale #EverydayHeroes