WRITING & ESSAY PATHWAY
A route for developing argument, voice, structure, and polished written submissions.
This pathway is based on competition region and does not confirm participant eligibility. Check each competition's details and official rules before applying.
For experienced students tackling substantial preparation and complex challenges.
5 competitions
QUICK SUMMARY
A UK poetry competition where students write an original poem on any theme and in any style. Open to young people aged 12–18 living in the UK. Rated Advanced Level, with difficulty mainly coming from originality, poetic technique and competitive judging.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
31 Dec 2026
QUICK SUMMARY
A UK short story competition where young writers submit an original work of fiction of up to 1,000 words. Open to young people aged 14–18 living in the UK. Rated Advanced Level, with difficulty mainly coming from originality, narrative craft and highly competitive national judging.
QUICK SUMMARY
Rated Advanced, these subject essay prizes are intended for eligible secondary students who submit individual written work online. Because annual subjects and eligibility can change, entrants should confirm the current Peterhouse page before choosing a question. The main challenge is developing an independent argument, selecting convincing evidence and sustaining precise academic writing within the stated brief.
QUICK SUMMARY
Rated Advanced, this law essay prize is intended for eligible Year 12 or Lower Sixth students, with international equivalents covered by the published Trinity guidance. Entrants choose the set question and submit one individual essay online. The main challenge is analysing a legal issue independently, structuring a precise argument and using relevant evidence without drifting into unsupported assertion.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
2 Apr 2026
QUICK SUMMARY
A UK entrepreneurship essay competition where students explore a set question on enterprise, innovation or business. Open to students in Years 11–13 or equivalent studying in the UK. Rated **Advanced Level**, with difficulty mainly coming from independent research, original thinking and clear analytical writing.
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
5 Aug 2026
COMPETITION DATE
5 Aug 2026