Why these 500 Words finalists think every child should take part

500 Words takes an inclusive approach, with spelling, punctuation and grammar not taken into account when entries are judged.

The competition is designed to celebrate creativity and imagination, helping to build confidence in the classroom and ensuring that reading and writing ability is never a barrier to taking part.

But what else can children gain from entering? To find out, we caught up with three of last year's finalists to hear about their experience of the competition, the impact it had on them, and why they think other children should get involved.

There are lots of prizes to be won, including a royal invitation for tea with Her Majesty The Queen for the six winners.

Winning stories will be revealed on special 500 Words programme with The One Show in early March, supported by Radio 2, where the winning stories will be revealed and read out by celebrities.

The competition is now open, so don't miss your chance to enter. Remember, all stories must be submitted by 9pm on Friday 6 November.

"I have enjoyed more writing as a result. It made me more confident on writing. I have also shared my story to my friends and my school. Now I want to be a writer. Putting my ideas into words is the most challenging part when I wrote the story. Luckily I didn’t give up and kept writing until it finished. It took a long time in my opinion, so a bit of determination helps. For the setting, it came up when I was thinking about what I liked. I have always liked space, and Mars is my favourite planet. I would say (to children taking part this year) read books about the genres you enjoyed the most."

Read Zuren's story here

"I think entering and winning this competition has had a BIG impact on my future and my love for writing! The challenges I faced while inventing my story was my precise wording and finding the best vocab to use. I don’t believe I used any inspiration other than wanting my story to be…uNuSuAl. My top tips for anyone wanting to take part is that you should be different, be happy and most importantly… have FUN!! As a result, I have DEFINITELY started to enjoy writing more and am already working on my first ever book!!!"

Read Maya's story here

"From the minute I arrived at Windsor Castle, I was full of wonder. The day was just magical and a once in a lifetime experience! I have always loved writing and the competition made me realise that I’m not the only person that loves it."

Read Clemmie's story here

Need more inspiration?