ABOUT OUR CONTESTS

One poetry contest is open to all age groups; another is open to all children 7 to 12 years of age, and youths, aged 13 to 18 years; and finally, a short story contest for all children ages 7-18. There is no entry fee for these contests.

An anthology is published after each contest. This occurs after final judging of poems or stories has taken place and all prizes have been awarded by the judging committee.

Our aim amongst young Canadians is to encourage the writing of English poetry, by publishing examples of the best work received each year. We provide the opportunity for many students to see their work in print, and also to compare it with the work of students of a similar age. It is also important that their writing skill be given an audience where it can be shared and enjoyed by others.

Approximately 40% of all poems or stories are not accepted in each of these contests. Poets and authors whose poem or story has been selected to appear in the anthologies are not obliged to buy the publication. As long as they return their signed author's release, stating that their poem/story is original and that they give the Poetry Institute of Canada permission to publish it, there is no further obligation (other than proofing their poem before publication).

This is our eighteenth year of successfully holding these contests. We are delighted with the positive response from poets, authors, teachers and parents, and have many encouraging letters on file praising our efforts.

Poets/authors receive the news of our contests mainly through news releases. These are published as a news article by editors of local newspapers. Or, in the case of schools, used for an English project in the classroom, or posted on the school notice board.

Thank you again for your wonderful gifts for our Academy and Collegiate in this year's poetry competition. As always, we feel privileged to be a part of such a worthwhile venture for our students. Our students look forward to participating each year and they learn so much from the whole writing process.

We want to thank you for all of your hard work to make this competition possible for students across Canada. It provides a welcome incentive for creative expression that otherwise may be difficult to encourage.

Thank you again for the investment in the lives of children.

With our best wishes,
Yours Sincerely,
Jill S., Whitefield Christian Schools

June 7, 2010:
First of all, Thank you for all your hard work in advancing both poetry and prose in our teens. Giving them the opportunity to participate in a credible contest truly encourages them to risk, and the pay off is great. We appreciate the countless hours you all have poured over entries, from an English teacher who knows the marking load can be heavy, I commend you. Well done!

Sincerely,
Jen S.
Pacific Christian Secondary School

I am extremely proud of my son for three reasons: The first is him being French Canadian, the second is being a profound dyslexic, and the third for his humbleness; he never told me about this competition until I received your letter asking me to fill out the release form. I think your competition is an inspiration to a lot of struggling Dyslexic students. I thank you to have inspired my son to want to read more because of this competition and especially write. I hope you continue your good work, and please do not forget how much this has touched our family and given our son hope in a literary way.

Christine B.
Click here for more testimonials