Delivered in partnership with First Story, the programme helps students discover the power of telling their own stories. They work with professional writers, try different styles of writing and develop the confidence to share their ideas.

This year, 125 students from Years 7 to 10 took part – an increase of 50 students compared to last year!

The programme was delivered at Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams, Co-op Academy Grange, Co-op Academy Leeds, Co-op Academy Manchester, Co-op Academy North Manchester and Co-op Academy Stoke-on-Trent. Every student finished the programme with their own professionally printed anthology to take home and keep.

There were also plenty of opportunities beyond the classroom.

Seventy-eight students attended Young Writers Festivals at The Lowry in Salford and the University of Cambridge. They took part in creative workshops, met published authors and performed their own writing on stage.

Three students also secured places on the highly competitive Young Writers Residential, where they spent a week writing alongside other young people from across the country.

Students also celebrated success in First Story's national competitions.

Praise, from Co-op Academy Grange, achieved second place in the Six Word Story competition. Filip, from Co-op Academy North Manchester, was awarded third place in the 100 Word Story competition. Noku, from Co-op Academy Stoke-on-Trent, received a Highly Commended award in the Six Word Story competition.

The programme has had a real impact on the students who took part. Every student and teacher surveyed said they would recommend it. Many students also said they feel more confident, enjoy writing more and have become more creative.

One student said:

"Every Tuesday after writing we are encouraged to speak aloud standing up. This has made me feel more confident speaking in front of others, especially those younger than me."

Another added:

"The Young Writers Programme has definitely helped me by improving my writing and reading, helping with other subjects in school. I have started writing more in my journal as now I have got the hang of writing stories."

Teachers also spoke about the difference the programme makes:

"First Story gives students the opportunity to write creatively in ways they don't always get during lessons. It helps them see writing as a way to express themselves and build confidence."

We're incredibly proud of everyone who took part this year and grateful to First Story for continuing to give our students opportunities to develop their creativity, confidence and love of writing.