BBC 500 Words

Verified

Writing

United Kingdom

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Competition Overview

Eligible ages: 5 - 11

School level: Ages 5-7 and 8-11

Competition stages: Creative writing competition cycle

Registration method: Individual Allowed

Fee: Unknown

Online / in-person: Online

Official Links

Official website Rules / PDF

Dates

Registration open: 23 Sept 2025

Registration deadline: 7 Nov 2025

Registration closed

Competition date start: Unknown

Competition date end: Unknown

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Competition Evaluation

Approved CompeteMap evaluation based on source-backed competition attributes.

Suitable level: Beginner Level

Level guide

LowerHigher

The highlighted color marker shows where each metric sits on its 0-4 scale.

Entry requirement: Open entry

Skill demand: Introductory skill demand

Output: Short task

Preparation: Light preparation

Selection process: Judged or shortlisted

Recognition: National recognition

Why this level

6 evaluation dimensions have source-backed automatic scores; 0 dimensions need conflict review.

Last evaluated: 11 Jun 2026

Our Take

CompeteMap's editorial perspective, based on our research and competition guide.

Official BBC 500 Words cycle. Terms indicate 2025/26 entry window from 23 Sep 2025 (08:00 BST) to 7 Nov 2025 (21:00 GMT). - BBC 500 Words is a major creative writing competition for children aged 5-11. - It is individual-entry and has separate age categories for younger and older primary pupils. - The strongest stories usually have a clear idea, vivid voice and satisfying ending. - Parents can support brainstorming and proofreading, but the story must remain the child's own work. - Preparation should include reading short stories, planning simply and revising for clarity.

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