National Writing Day 2021 Posted on 20 June 2021 by Amber Gravenell - Kent Teach in Resources UPDATED – June 2021 National Writing Day is an annual nationwide event designed to inspire people to utilise their writing skills. No matter your preferred form of creative writing, National Writing Day celebrates all forms, genres and styles!The 23rd June 2021 marks the fifth year of National Writing Day and is a celebration of the power of creative writing, encouraging people of all ages to put pen to paper. Everybody, adults and children alike, can take part. This year’s event will take place both online and in the classroom with the chosen theme of connection. This is a fitting theme following multiple lockdowns and schools closures due to COVID-19 in the United Kingdom. The event is a recognition of the power creative writing can have in bringing people together. It is an opportunity for people to share their joys, voices and their stories.This National Writing Day, First Story have set a challenge! The challenge is #FilltheBox; essentially, young people are being invited to produce a piece of creative writing in their chosen form along the theme of connection. No matter the size or format, everyone can take part. You can find out more about the challenge on the First Story website. It is a wonderful challenge with a strong, relevant, and relatable theme. On the website, you will find inspiration for budding writers as well as examples. There is also a range of classroom resources to download at the bottom of the page and there are guidance notes available for parents as well as teachers. National Writing Day 2021 is supported by 4 inspirational authors; Michael Rosen, Kate Clanchy, Karl Nova and Alexandra Sheppard. On the First Story website, they have provided videos containing tips and advice for the #FilltheBox challenge. They will also be involved in reading submitted pieces and responding to them!Some of the partners supporting the 2021 campaign include the British Library and Hachette. The supporters have created a range of resources to support children, teachers and every aspiring writer. The creative writing resources include identity exploration, how to get into publishing and forging a connection with nature. The Literacy Trust have a fantastic website bursting with ideas and inspiration! They have activities for primary school pupils and secondary age pupils. The activities range from Cressida Cowell’s top tips for budding young writers to the BBC’s Comedy Classroom resource.National Writing Day is an ideal opportunity for a change in the classroom timetable! Why not make the time to explore this years theme and encourage creative young writers to put a pen to paper? You never know what treasures will be preserved in ink… or pencil! If you are feeling inspired, then our blog 'How Can Schools Rekindle Creativity in Students?' is an ideal read!