Curriculum links:
- National Curriculum, England - KS2 English
- National Curriculum, Northern Ireland - KS1 and 2 Language and Literacy
- Curriculum for Excellence, Scotland - Literacy and English 1st and 2nd Level
- Curriculum for Wales - Language, Literacy and Communication, progression step 2
Learning objectives:
- Enjoy using their imagination to create their own story.
- Learn to create interesting characters and settings to bring their story to life.
- Plan their writing by discussing, developing and recording ideas.
- Develop their story planning skills.
What will happen in the 500 Words Live Lesson?
Everyone has a story to tell and we want to inspire as many pupils as possible to tell theirs for 500 Words. Hosted by Sir Lenny Henry and Naomi Wilkinson, this Live Lesson will help pupils discover how great story ideas can grow from the things that make them unique, from their experiences and interests to their imagination.
Together, we'll explore what makes a memorable character, transform personal ideas into original story creations, and discover how a simple “what if?” question can unlock exciting plot possibilities. Featuring storytelling tips from past 500 Words finalists, the lesson is designed to help children develop the confidence to start their own 500 Words story.
Sir Lenny Henry will be answering questions from your class at the end of the lesson, email your questions to live.lessons@bbc.co.uk.
What is 500 Words?
500 Words is the UK's largest story-writing competition for 5-11 year-olds. This year, entries open from Tuesday 29 September and will close at 9pm, Friday 6 November.
Find out more about the 500 Words competition here
How to get involved:
This programme is live and will be accompanied by a live website commentary feed for schools on this page. We’ll be updating it with your comments and shout-outs live throughout the broadcast.
Email your shout-outs to live.lessons@bbc.co.uk with 500 Words as the subject, or get in touch using the get in touch form.
If you are sending in any images or videos that feature children, please confirm in your email that you have parental or guardian permission.
Get in touch. upload
Fill out this form for a chance to receive a shout-out on our live commentary feed.
BBC 500 Words 2026
Find out more about BBC's 500 Words, the UK's largest children's writing competition for children aged 5-11's
Frequently asked questions
Click here for more information about prizes, the final or how to enter.
Watch again: 500 Words 2025 – Live Lesson
For more inspiration, catch-up on our 2025 lesson where Sir Lenny Henry and Naomi Wilkinson went on a mission to collect the key ingredients of a brilliant story
