Maghull High students named national poetry winners

Students from Maghull High School took part in a national poetry competition to mark the 80th anniversary of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The contest invited young people to reflect on themes of peace, remembrance and hope for the future, encouraging them to use poetry as a way to express empathy and global awareness.

The competition was judged by poet and CND Peace Education patron Antony Owen, alongside poet and publisher Aaron Kent. Both praised the high standard of entries and the depth of emotion shown by students from across the country.

Two Maghull High students, Freddie and Lily-Frances, were named Honorary Winners – an incredible achievement recognising their talent and thought-provoking writing. They have been invited to London for a celebratory event, where they will recite their poems live before an audience of writers and educators.

Reflecting on his success, Freddie said: “I am honoured to have been shortlisted and to represent something that is so important to so many.”

Lily-Frances added: “I was inspired to enter this competition because I want to go into creative writing as a profession. This topic allowed me to write about something outside of my own experience, and I am extremely proud to have been chosen.”