BookFest YA 2026

BookFest YA, created by author/educator, Nicola Garrard, gets under way this week

Young Writers Invited to BookFest YA Masterclass and Creative Writing Competition

Children’s BookFest is inviting young people aged 11–17 to unleash their creativity through a new creative writing competition and an inspiring YA writing masterclass led by author, teacher and facilitator Nicola Garrard.

Part of the charity’s new BookFest YA programme, the initiative aims to encourage teenagers to explore storytelling, develop their writing skills and discover the opportunities that creative writing can offer.

At a time when reading for pleasure among young people is at its lowest level in two decades, BookFest YA has been created to help teenagers reconnect with stories in ways that feel relevant, engaging and inspiring.

The programme features a creative writing competition open to young people across the district. Entrants are invited to imagine the opening chapter of a novel, creating characters, worlds and storylines that capture a reader’s imagination from the very first page.

To support aspiring writers, Nicola Garrard will also lead a free creative writing and publishing masterclass, offering practical advice on developing ideas, crafting compelling stories and understanding how the publishing industry works.

Nicola said:

"Writing gives young people a unique opportunity to explore their ideas, experiences and imagination. Whether they already love writing or are trying it for the first time, I hope this masterclass and competition will encourage them to discover the power of storytelling and the confidence that comes from finding their own voice."

Children’s BookFest Co-Founder Penny Tomlinson added:

"We know that young people are full of creativity, but many lose confidence in their writing as they get older. Through BookFest YA, we want to give teenagers the opportunity to experiment, be inspired and see that their stories matter. The competition and masterclass are designed to be accessible, enjoyable and open to everyone, regardless of experience."

The BookFest YA creative writing competition is now open, with entries welcomed from young people aged 11–17 across the district. Winners will have the opportunity to have their work recognised as part of the programme and celebrated alongside fellow young writers. The closing date for entries is 31 July 2026. 

The writing masterclass takes place on Sunday 14th June at Chichester Free School. It is free to attend but pre-booking is required. 

The initiative forms part of Children’s BookFest’s contribution to the National Year of Reading 2026 and its ongoing mission to inspire a lifelong love of stories among children and young people.

For more information about the competition and masterclass, visit the BookFest YA page.