Bulwell Academy student wins University of Cambridge prize

The annual Young Writers Festival Competition, now in its third year, invites students to write a creative piece inspired by an illustration by legendary illustrator Sir Quentin Blake, best known for his work with authors like Road Dahl.

Former Children's Laureate Sir Quentin, a Fellow of the University of Cambridge, has shared his distinctive, joyful illustrations to inspire a new generation of writers.

Students from across England submited entries and year 10 student Diego was announced as the 2026 winner live on stage at this year’s festival, which is England's biggest for young writers. 

The winning piece is published in the prestigious Downing College literary magazine The Leaves, and the winner receives an editorial feedback session in preparation. 

Bulwell Academy is part of the First Story's Young Writers programme, where students like Diego learn to develop their own voice and increase their confidence and creativity.

Enrichment programmes like First Story’s help schools deliver a broader curriculum and raise aspirations.

Bulwell Academy has had much success at the festival with Diego interviewing acclaimed writer Steven Camden on stage in 2025 and former student Alex Applegate interviewing BAFTA award winner Dean Atta in 2024.   

Diego said “At first, I was in disbelief.

“I was just having a regular conversation with my friends when the news got broken and when I was told I won,

“I was immediately filled with excitement.

“I am genuinely honoured and so happy to have won the competition as it’s the biggest accomplishment I think I’ve ever had.

“Thank you to the people who helped me win!” 

Dr Bonnie Lander-Johnson, fellow, lecturer and director of studies in English at the University of Cambridge said: “It’s so important that we gather young people in Cambridge each year to hear their work and their views, and to show them what university is like.

“Quentin Blake donated these images so young people could find their own way toward writing and education.

“Last year’s competition winner found comedy in Blake’s image, but this year Diego saw the latent threat.

“That’s what writing does so well - it draws out the unseen and unexpected in any situation.”

Joel Hunt, school librarian at Bulwell Academy, added: “This is such a well-deserved win for Diego, who has continually impressed us with his creativity and determination.

“His take on Sir Quentin's prompt image really builds a sense of intrigue and mystery and I'm sure it won't be long before we're seeing Diego's work on the shelves of Waterstones" 

First Story provides young people from underserved communities with enriching extracurricular creative writing activities and cultural experiences that foster their creativity, confidence, ability and talent.

It’s flagship 16-week Young Writers programme places inspiring professional writers in residence in non-selective secondary schools in low-income communities.

Writers work intensively with a consistent group towards publication of a printed anthology.

The programme also stages regular events – including the annual festival – competitions and resources for teachers complement its core provision.

Participants develop their unique voices and learn to tell their own stories with confidence and skill.

Find out more at firststory.org.uk