Canterbury Tales Writing Competition 2026/7

The Canterbury Tales Writing Competition 2026/7 is organised by the Chaucer Heritage Trust and is open to school-age students, including those in schools, colleges, home education, and youth community organisations. The annual competition is inspired by the works of Geoffrey Chaucer and invites young writers to create a poem or story that reflects the theme of “Transformations”.

Entrants can write about a transformation, change that leads to surprising consequences, or a character who transforms from good to evil or evil to good. Entries should capture the spirit of The Canterbury Tales, be written in English, and may use everyday language and colloquialisms where appropriate. The competition has three age categories: Junior (5–10), Intermediate (11–14), and Senior (15–18).

Choose ONE of the following:

• Write a poem or story about a transformation
• Write a poem or story about change that leads to surprising consequences
• Write a description of a character who transforms from evil to good or from good to evil

Top prize: £300 for the winning entrant in each age category, plus £1,000 for the winning entrant’s school library.

Is this event legit?YES! – Based on our research this event is legitimate and the organizer is well established. However, as with any opportunity, please remember to do your own research before submitting your work. Check the organizer’s website and carefully read the terms and conditions!

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