On a day they will always remember, 45 pupils from E-ACT Badock’s Wood Academy in Southmead attended an awards ceremony and reception at Windsor Castle after taking part in BBC 500 Words, the UK’s biggest children’s story-writing competition for 5-11 year olds.
While not finalists themselves, Badock’s Wood children wrote stories for the competition and applied to attend the finalist ceremony as guests. They were invited to attend and had an amazing day, confidently meeting Her Majesty and seeing the splendour of Windsor Castle.
Pupils attended the star-studded grand final, which was once again hosted by Her Majesty Queen Camilla and presented by Alex Jones and Roman Kemp from The One Show. Each winner’s story was read aloud by celebrity readers Bradley and Barney Walsh, Big Zuu, Joanna Page, Paterson Joseph, Sara Cox and Jodie Whittaker.
The 500 Words competition, founded in 2011, aims to encourage a love of writing and reading while improving literacy in children. Children are encouraged to write a story they would love to read themselves.
Clio Brown, E-ACT’s national director of early years and early reading, said: “It was an absolute privilege to take 45 children from Badock’s Wood E-ACT Academy to Windsor Castle alongside headteacher, Gemma Hewson. Being welcomed to such a stunning and historic setting and hosted by The Queen made the day feel incredibly special for the children.
“Hearing the finalists’ stories brought to life by celebrities such as Jodie Whittaker, Joanna Page and Bradley Walsh was inspiring and it truly celebrated the power of reading and writing. Events like this help our children see themselves as authors and storytellers, showing them that their voices and imaginations matter. The day was filled with unforgettable moments, from afternoon tea with The Queen to meeting Paddington, the Gladiators Steel and Diamond, and the singer from The Greatest Showman.
“Most importantly, it was a day that celebrated creativity, confidence and the joy of storytelling. We came away feeling incredibly proud of our children and already excited about next year’s competition.”
Bilal, Head Pupil at Badock’s Wood, added: “The visit to Windsor Castle was an incredible trip. It was an honour to be invited by Her Majesty and listen to some incredible stories read by some famous faces.
“The event brought powerful stories to life through storytelling and out-of-this-world illustrations. We can’t wait to enter next year!”