Skip to content

We use necessary cookies that allow our site to work. We also set optional cookies that help us improve our website.

For more information about the types of cookies we use, and to manage your preferences, visit our Cookies policy here.

Cookie settings
Programme

Young City Poets (London)

Added 01 Sep 2023 | Updated 12 Sep 24

2023063)_NLT_StPauls_KM6_0758

Get involved

This project is aimed at groups of reluctant writers in Years 5 to 9 from state schools with over 22.5% of pupils receiving free school meals.

We are currently recruiting schools for 2024/25.

If you have any questions please email nicole.jashapara@literacytrust.org.uk

To stay updated on our writing projects, explore our Young Writers pages and sign up to our newsletter.

The programme

Young City Poets is a writing-for-enjoyment project which enables pupils to engage with literacy on their own terms in a way that also meets national curriculum requirements for writing. It does this through creating memorable experiences to help bring writing to life, lively guided discussions, collaborative and individual writing activities led by professional poets, and publishing and performing tasks.

Every school participating in Young City Poets is provided with support to use our three-pillar approach to writing to galvanise students’ engagement with poetry.

Schools will receive

  • A teacher briefing focusing on using our three-pillar approach to writing to inspire reluctant writers
  • A memorable experience for students at a cultural venue in London
  • A visit from a poet to work with the class on writing and performing original poetry
  • The opportunity for students to perform their poetry in front of a live audience
  • A chance for students to be published in an anthology
2023063)_NLT_StPauls_KM6_0793

"A student came into YCP feeling indifferent towards the project and poetry itself. 'Poetry is boring, why am I here?' They then went on to go on the trip, play an active part in the visiting poet workshop, sent me work to edit and went on to perform at St Paul's with arguably the best poem of the group."

London Teacher

We ask that...

  • You deliver at least one lesson with your class (lesson plans are provided)
  • You nominate and ensure the inclusion of your students in the performance and publishing opportunities
  • You and your students complete the post-project evaluation surveys

"The Young City Poets project provided our students with the remarkable experience of viewing the city of London through the lens of art."

London Teacher

Our cultural partners

City of London crest
Back to top