Our annual 'Celebration of Creative Writing' was an evening filled with energetic readings, amazing creative writing and a variety of presentations, and so had something for everyone. The event recognises students work throughout the year, and offers prizes in three categories (Flash Fiction, Short Stories and Poetry). The diverse range of work produced by sixth form students this year, made it extremely difficult for our judges to decide on the final award winners.
New Writing North and Sunderland University were also at the celebration and gave useful insights into careers in writing and literature, and the opportunities available to young authors and poets. The evening was also a chance to let students showcase their own work, and the role of one particular student was highlighted. David Curry acknowledged at the very start of the year that he had social anxiety, and the whole year has been a build up to the event, which concluded with David making his very first public reading in front of the whole audience at the celebration.
Angela Martin, English Teacher, and co-ordinator of the Literary Awards and enrichment group for creative writing commented: 'We are all really proud of David's achievement this year. He has grown in confidence as the year progressed, and this final event and reading his own work was unthinkable for him only a couple of months ago. He was one of the winners in the Flash fiction category, which demonstrates just how talented he is as a young writer, and events like this allow our talented students to shine.'
David made an impressive debut as a public speaker, reading a selection of work at the event including some of his own material.
The event is an annual showcase of talent, and has grown substantially in recent years, with next years programme already being planned with new enrichment groups starting from September.
