Rules:

You must be aged 11-17 on the closing date of the 31st July 2011 (i.e. Under 18 years old) in order to enter. The competition closes at midnight on the 31st July 2011.

FYP is about what you want to write. So you can enter poems written in class, or poems you've written at home, from exercises or from your own imaginings. The competition is free to enter and poems can be of any length. Individuals may enter more than one poem, however we strongly advise that you concentrate on drafting and redrafting your poems and send only a selection (we suggest no more than 6-8 maximum) of your very best. Remember, quality is more important than quantity! 

  • Each poem must be the original work of the author, and must not have been previously published, broadcast or have won another competition.
  • Entrants must be aged 11-17 on the closing date of the 31st July 2011.
  • Poems should be in English.
  • Competition entries cannot be returned under any circumstances so please make sure you make note of all poems entered and send copies only.
  • No acknowledgment of receipt can be made for postal entries unless a stamped, self-addressed envelope is included with the entry. Please ensure the correct postage is used as late entries cannot be accepted. Please note online entries will receive an email notification if an email address is provided.
  • The judges’ decision is final, and no correspondence will be entered into concerning this decision.
  • Entries sent in by e-mail will not be accepted.
  • All online entries must be received by midnight on the 31st July 2011. Late entries will not be accepted under any circumstances.
  • All postal entries must be post dated before the 31st July 2011.
  • Entrants can be from any part of the world - (however please note that we are unable to cover the travel fees for any Top Fifteen International Winners invited to the Arvon Course).
  • The copyright of each poem remains with the author. Authors of the winning poems will grant the Poetry Society permission to publish or broadcast the poems.
  • All 100 winners will be invited to attend an awards ceremony on National Poetry Day, the 6th October, in London.