YOUNG writers have been putting pen to paper at Sarum Academy in Salisbury.

Students at the school took part in its annual Big Write competition, with categories for creative, journalistic and scientific writing.

The three grand winners were given a Kindle Fire, while first, second and third-placed youngsters were awarded a variety of exciting experiences such as a visit to London, a journalism workshop, the opportunity to cohost a lecture with Dstl and a visit to the Journal offices.

Principal Ruth Johnson said: “We were thrilled with the number of entries and the quality of the writing this year. Everyone who entered should be really proud of their achievement.”

Student winners

STEM years 7 and 8: Tyler Gray (grand winner), Shauna-Esme Cannings (second), Jessica Evans (third).

STEM years 9 to sixth form: Katie Davidson and Ciaran Spence (joint first), Chloe Venning (second).

Journalistic years 7 and 8: Emilia Stanley (grand winner), Morgan Read (second), Louis Austin (third).

Journalistic years 9 to sixth form: Konrad Makowski (first), Rebecca Paull (second), Tyrese Wilson (third).

Creative writing years 7, to 9: Danielle Stokes (first), Sophie McIntosh (second), Thom Clements (joint third) Sophie Pellow (joint third).

Creative writing years 10 to sixth form: Keesha Brignall–Roe (grand winner), Mikala Gurd (second), Alice Collins (third).

Staff winners

STEM: Joan Hwa Wong

Journalistic: Paul Langridge

Creative: Helen Brown