Budding poet? Foyle young poet award opens its doors

One of the most prestigious poetry competitions for young poets is now open for entries from 11-17-year-olds. More than 7,000 young poets enter every year from all over the world - previous winners have come from New Zealand, Malaysia and the USA. Many past winners have gone on to become published and prize-winning poets, including Caroline Bird, Sarah Howe and Caleb Klaces. They are supported in their poetry writing by the prize - the top 15 poets are published in an anthology which goes out to more than 20,000 people worldwide in March 2013. The 14-17-year-olds also attend a week-long residential course run by the famous Arvon centre, where they will be tutored by this year's judges, Christopher Reid and Helen Mort. The 11-14-year-old winners receive a visit to their school from a professional poet, followed by distance mentoring. The Foyles young poet of the year award is free to enter and poems can be of any length and on any subject. The deadline for entries is 31 July 2012. Find out more at www.foyleyoungpoets.org