The UK’s most successful children’s writing competition, BBC 500 Words has added a 6th judge to its panel of celebrity judges – actor and children’s author Rose Ayling-Ellis, who brings fresh perspective and inspiration to the competition that celebrates creativity in all its forms.
Rose joins an already star-studded panel including Malorie Blackman, Frank Cottrell-Boyce, Sir Lenny Henry, Charlie Higson, and Francesca Simon, with Alex Jones returning as chair.
Rose Ayling-Ellis said: “It was amazing to be involved with 500 Words last year and to see such creativity from all the young people. It’s a very special, inspiring event that really celebrates the imaginations of young minds and I’m honoured to be returning as a judge this year. I can’t wait to read all their wonderful stories.”
The competition, which closes at 9pm on Friday 7 November is supported by BBC Bitesize for Teachers, and invites children aged 5–7 and 8–11 to write the story they’d love to read in 500 words or fewer – with no pressure around spelling, grammar or punctuation. It’s all about imagination and expression.
The return of 500 Words was announced by Alex Jones on The One Show in September, where she also revealed that the grand final will take place at Windsor Castle in February 2026. Winners will even have the chance to meet Her Majesty The Queen, who continues to support the competition’s royal legacy.
Alex Jones said: “We are so excited to be back for 500 Words! It’s a highlight in The One Show calendar and being invited to Windsor Castle for the Grand Final feels really special. I can’t wait to read the brilliant stories and celebrate reading, writing and imagination!”
Prizes and Final Event
Fifty finalists will be invited to a star-studded final at Windsor Castle, where the top six stories (bronze, silver and gold in each age category) will be read aloud by celebrities. The event will be featured in a special 500 Words episode of The One Show on BBC One in early March 2026.
Winners will receive:
Gold: The height of Sir Lenny Henry in books + 500 books for their school
Silver: The height of Her Majesty The Queen in books
Bronze: The average height of a 7- or 11-year-old in books
All winning stories will be illustrated and published in a special book by Oxford University Press, with illustrations from top children’s artists including Korky Paul and Harriet Muncaster.
How to Enter
Entries must be typed and submitted by an adult by 9pm on Friday 7 November 2025. Full details, terms and conditions, and privacy notices are available on the BBC 500 Words website.
Partners
BBC Children’s and Education runs 500 Words in partnership with Beano, EFL in the Community, HeadteacherChat, Libraries Connected, National Literacy Trust, National Book Tokens, Oxford University Press, Publishers Association, Pobble, Premier League Primary Stars, The Reading Agency, World Book Day and new partner, Crayola.
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