The Atom Learning Young Author Award 2022

Entries are now closed!

Thanks so much for all of your stories. Winners will be notified soon.

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The prizes! (the prizes are the same for both categories)

1st Place

A trip to Disneyland Paris for a family of four
A stack of novels
An illustrated book cover for your story, designed by a professional illustrator
£2,500 for your school

2nd Place

An overnight stay at London Zoo for a family of four, with travel covered
A stack of novels
£1,000 for your school

3rd Place

£250 voucher for Virgin Experience Days
A stack of novels
£500 for your school

The theme

The 2022 theme for Atom’s Young Author Award is A DAY THAT CHANGED THE WORLD.

Every day, our world is changing and impacting the lives of young people. Some of these changes are incredible, amazing feats that make the world a better place. Other changes are sadly less positive. We want our Young Authors to write a piece of original fiction about a day that changed the world. This theme can take your writing anywhere. Perhaps you or your main character…

Saved an endangered species?
Found a magical doorway to a better world or alternative reality?
Switched off the internet?
Discovered a solution to the climate crisis at the bottom of the sea?
Concocted a potion that made people fart embarrassingly loudly whenever they were angry?
Spoke to all of the world’s leaders to end world hunger and bring about world peace?

Whatever you decide to write about, we’re looking for a piece of writing that makes the reader thirsty to read more! Our judges are looking for a highly readable story with engaging characters, a compelling plot and a thought-provoking message.

FAQs

I have some questions about the competition. Who do I contact?

You can contact our competition team on [email protected]

How will entries be judged?

We’re looking for high-quality writing, creative flair, and a compelling storyline. Entries will be judged by our team of teachers and curriculum specialists.

Can I submit non-fiction writing?

Not this time! We’re looking for original fiction: stories that are inspired by the theme ‘A day that changed the world’.

Can my parent or an adult help me with my entry?

No - we want to hear from you! The entry you submit must be all your own work.

How do I submit my entry?

You can enter by clicking the button below. All submissions must be made through this form. You can either type your entry and submit it as a Word document or PDF, or handwrite your entry and upload a scan or photo of it.

Are multiple entries allowed?

You can only enter the competition once.

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