The English Department at Strode College in Street has launched a lockdown creative writing competition for students and non-students alike.

As we cope with the strains of lockdown, many of us are inspired to write. Strode are offering the opportunity to harness that creative energy with a free writing competition – with entries accepted in any genre.

The Competition

- This is a no holds barred competition, there is only one rule: submissions must be no more than 1,500 words long. There is no minimum amount.

- You might choose to respond to the current situation or you might choose to submit something completely unrelated, it is up to you.

- We accept all genres – poems, screenplays, fiction, non-fiction, essays.

- You may upload as many entries as you like.

- There are two entry categories: 19 and under, and 20 and over.

- Entry is free

How do I enter?

- To enter, simply email your work as an attachment to the relevant email address below. Please only send one attachment per email, send multiple emails for multiple entries.

- The competition will end at midnight on June 7.

- In your email, subject please include the title of your work and the name you wish to have listed should you be successful.

- To enter the under 19 competition upload your entries to: [email protected].

- To enter the 20 and over competition upload your entries to [email protected].

We are opening this to all members of the public, as well as current, past and prospective students.

What can I win?

Strode College are working in conjunction with Strode Theatre and Bookbarn International to provide prizes, with first, second and third prizes available in each competition. As well as publishing winners on our social media, prizes include:

First prize: £25 Amazon vouchers, two tickets to a film screening of your choice at Strode Theatre, a £10 voucher for Bookbarn International and a Tote bag.

Second prize: £15 Amazon vouchers, two tickets to a film screening of your choice at Strode Theatre.

Third prize: £10 Amazon vouchers, two tickets to a film screening of your choice at Strode Theatre.

A shortlist of ten entries for each competition (decided by Strode College English Department) will also be posted, with judges representing each of the prize donators determining the winners from the shortlist.

Get writing and good luck!

Interested in English and Creative Writing?

Why not explore the possibilities offered by Strode's English with Creative Writing Foundation Degree?

Study here in Street for two days a week full time, one day a week part time.