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National Literacy Trust

National Poetry Centre

Could you be our next Young Poet Laureate?

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We are looking for 12 young poet laureates across England. 2 per region (1 KS2 and 1 KS3 poet per region) ​​

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National Literacy Trust

What is a poet Laureate?

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 A writer who is a volunteer poetry ambassador for their region.

Their job is to:

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National Poetry Centre

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Champion poetry and help inspire other young people to engage with poetry

Perform and share their poetry at celebrations and festivals

Write poems for events and special occasions

National Literacy Trust

A Laureate is someone who:

Believes poetry can help people express feelings and ideas

Is proud to represent their school and community

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Is happy to give poetry a go and keep learning

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Enjoys poetry and wants to share it with others

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National Literacy Trust

You don’t have to be an expert - you just need a voice and a love of words!

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National Literacy Trust

What is it like to be a Young Poet Laureate?

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National Poetry Centre

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National Literacy Trust

What opportunities may being a Young Poet Laureate bring?

• Poetry published (all shortlisted poets will be published in an anthology)
• Poetry published on transport or even local landmarks and buildings! (Like Izzy whose poem was turned into a giant mural on a building in Leeds – and here she is pictured with Mayor Tracy Brabin to celebrate)
• Meet professional poets
• Receive 1-1 and group mentoring from professional poets to work on your writing and performing skills
• Invites to perform at events, celebrations and festivals
• Opportunities to write poems for commission

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National Poetry Centre

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National Literacy Trust

How do I apply?

National Poetry Centre

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• Chose a poem that you are proud of or write a new one – maximum of 40 lines

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• Write a personal statement explaining why you would like to be a young poet laureate for your region - max 200 words

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• Ask your teacher to submit the poem for you before the deadline of 19 January 2026

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National Literacy Trust

What should my poem be about?

National Poetry Centre

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• Anything at all! It could be about:

- Something that matters to you

- A feeling, a memory, a place or perspective

- Something you care about or wonder about

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• Any style is welcome – the choice is yours – it doesn't have to rhyme! It could be be rap/spoken word/page poetry

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• Poems in other languages are accepted with an English translation

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National Literacy Trust

What should I put in my personal statement?

National Poetry Centre

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This is a short piece of writing about you. You could include:

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• Why you enjoy poetry
• What poetry means to you
• Why you would be a good poetry ambassador
• Ideas about how you would share and champion poetry in your school and community

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National Literacy Trust

Key dates:

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National Poetry Centre

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Now until 19 January 2026 – Apply!

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March 2026  - 120 shortlisted young poets announced (20 per region)

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20 April to 8 May 2026 - Day long regional masterclasses for shortlist and judging panels

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June 2026 – Announcement and appointment of the 12 Young Poets Laureate

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June 2026 to July 2027 – Laureateships

National Literacy Trust