The Solstice Nature Prize for Writing is now open!

The Solstice Nature Prize is our free-to-enter national, annual writing competition for children and young people, inviting them to take a closer look at the natural world, explore their relationship with it, or examine the challenges it faces, and write short stories, poems, and thought-provoking blogs in response.

In 2026, we're looking for entries about any aspect of nature and offering prizes for winners and highly commended pieces in four age groups: 7-11, 12-14, 15-17 and 18-25 years. With regional prizes available in each age group for young writers who live in the East Midlands.

Short stories and blogs must be up to 500 words and poetry can be no more than 30 lines. Young writers may submit one piece each.

Know an emerging poet or budding storyteller who'd love to get involved? Make sure their writing is with us by 10th October 2026 at 11.59 pm.

Please note: We're using a new entry system called Duotrope. You need to set up an account to enter. If you have any issues submitting your young writer's work, or if you're a teacher looking to submit a classroom's work, please contact: [email protected]