ABOUT JAYCE JOYCE BCyA

Jayce Joyce BCyA is a 7-year-old highly gifted multi award winning author and kidpreneur from Birmingham, UK, celebrated for his extraordinary achievements in literacy and youth empowerment. A young member of Mensa with an IQ of 150, Jayce has captivated national audiences and literary circles alike with his intellect, creativity, and passion for storytelling. Jayce began writing at an early age and made literary history at just four years old by simultaneously publishing his first two books: “A Beach with No Sea” and “Jayce's Sweet Tooth”. By age five, he had released his third book, “Jayce's Alphabet Rules”, along with “Jayce’s World of Learning Gift Box”—both released on World Book Day 2024. In addition to his published works, Jayce is the founder of Jayce's World Children’s Publishing, an imprint he launched to support emerging young authors and promote diverse voices in children's literature. As part of this mission, he donated books to pupils from Nelson Mandela Primary School and frequently uses proceeds from book sales to provide school kits to children in the UK and overseas.

about

the theme

Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion in Children's Literature

This year’s theme is inspired by the powerful legacy of Benjamin Zephaniah, celebrating his lifelong commitment to justice, identity, and the richness of diverse voices in literature. The Books from Children to Children project invites budding young writers to submit illustrated Short stories or poems that explore:

  • Diversity and inclusion
  • Culture and heritage
  • Everyday experiences shaped by identity
  • The Importance of representation in children’s learning

    • The initiative empowers children to become the storytellers of their generation - sharing authentic voices that resonate with other young readers.

    What we are looking for

    We're inviting children in primary schools across the UK - especially those from underserved communities to take part in this exciting opportunity to become published young authors!

    We Welcome:

  • Original illustrated short stories or poems (up to 500 words).
  • Thoughtful reflections on what diversity, inclusion, culture, and heritage mean in everyday life.

    • Whether it’s a story about a family tradition, a poem about friendship, or a tale that celebrates differences, we want to hear your voice! Let children tell their stories, in their own words and images because every voice matters.

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    Why it matters

    In a world that’s beautifully varied, children deserve to see themselves and others reflected in the stories they read. This project nurtures empathy, confidence, and creativity - one young author at a time.

    All Winners will Have

    Certificate
    A Benjamin Zephaniah Book
    Story Published in Anthology
    Personal printed copy of the book
    Featured in First News

    Judges for the 2025 competition

    Selina Brown
    Kate Rafiq

    Author & Illustrator

    David Springer
    Selina Brown

    Author & Founder of Black British Book Festival

    David Springer
    Juliet Coley BCAe

    Award Winning Educator

    David Springer
    David Springer

    Screenprinter

    key dates

    14 JULY - 7 SEPT
    2025

    Competition Opens

    12 SEPT - 30 SEPT
    2025

    Selection Process

    3 OCT
    2025

    Shortlisted Participants are informed

    6 OCT 2025 - 31 JAN 2026

    Publication of Anthology Process

    5 MARCH 2026

    WORLD BOOK DAY
    Launch Date & Award Ceremony

    sponsors and partners

    The Rep
    PBLJ
    Birmingham Botanical Gardens
    Apples and Snakes
    Red Circle Logo
    National Trust
    National Trust

    ENDORSEMENTS

    A Message from Qian Zephaniah
    Benjamin always said that stories are the soul of a people - the way we heal, resist, and rejoice. He believed every child’s voice, no matter how small, could shake the world if given the chance. That’s why this summer storytelling competition fills my heart with such hope.
    National Literacy Trust in Birmingham Manager, Kyle Turakhia said:
    “Writing isn’t just a skill – it’s a powerful tool for thinking, communicating, and selfexpression. We know that when young people write regularly and enjoy it, it benefits their creativity, confidence, critical thinking, and wellbeing. “Worryingly, The National Literacy Trust’s recent research shows that too many children and young people are not writing for pleasure. That’s why competitions like Jayce’s are so important to help change this and inspire creative writing across the city.”

    Competition rules

    Eligibility & Entry:

  • Primary school children across the UK
  • One entry per person
  • Must be original and written in English
  • No AI-generated content allowed
  • Submit by email only
  • Deadline: 23:59 PM on 7 September 2025

    • Requirements

  • Maximum 500 words
  • Must include a title

    • Submission Details:

  • All entries must be submitted by emailing your work to info@jaycesworldoflearning.co.uk
  • Include your address, date of birth, contact number, and email
  • Parental authorisation required here

    • Other Important Info:

  • You give permission for your work to be used in marketing
  • Withdraw by emailing: info@jaycesworldoflearning.co.uk
  • Prizes must be claimed within 3 months
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  • Full terms and conditions available here.
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    FAQS

    Children in primary schools across the UK are eligible to enter

    All entries must be submitted by emailing your work to: info@jaycesworldoflearning.co.uk

    Maximum 500 words (excluding the title) Must have a title Written in English Original work only (no AI-generated content or previously published material).

    No. AI-generated content is strictly prohibited and may result in disqualification.

    No. Submissions must be made individually.

    All entries must be submitted by emailing your work to info@jaycesworldoflearning.co.uk

    You must include: Full name, Address, Date of birth, Contact number, Email address and Parental authorisation

    All entries must be received by 23:59 PM on 7 September 2025

    Winners will be contacted directly via the email or phone number provided.

    Prizes must be claimed within three months of being awarded.

    By entering, you grant permission for your poem to be reproduced and used in marketing materials.

    Email: info@jaycesworldoflearning.co.uk before the deadline to request a withdrawal.

    You can view the complete list of terms and conditions.

    No. Once submitted, changes or resubmissions are not permitted.