Isle of Wight Writer Joins National Young Poet Laureate Programme

Isle of Wight-based writer, publisher, and community arts leader Lottie Begg is joining the Young Poet Laureate programme 2025, a national initiative run by the National Poetry Centre and the National Literacy Trust.

The programme aims to inspire creativity and confidence in Key Stage 2 and 3 pupils across England, with classroom resources, live events, and mentoring from professional poets.

As founder and director of Lemon Jelly Press CIC, Lottie will be visiting schools to share her poetry, lead workshops, and encourage children to find their own voices through writing.

She will also feature poems from her recently released children’s collection, A Little Book of Awesome Poems, which blends silly, fun rhymes with thoughtful pieces about feelings and everyday life.

Lottie is also leading the launch of the Isle of Wight’s first official Poet Laureate programme, set to begin early next year.

The new island-wide role will give local poets opportunities to work in schools, libraries, and community spaces while celebrating the island’s creative life.

The Young Poet Laureate programme offers:

• Free classroom resources and lesson plans

• Young Poets Week (24–28 November) with online masterclasses from poets including Laura Mucha, Zohab Zee Khan, Karl Nova, and Nikita Gill

• A chance for 120 schools to host free in-person poetry visits

• Opportunities for pupils to become regional Young Poet Laureates

Lottie said:

“I’m thrilled to be part of such an inspiring initiative.

"Poetry can give children a new way to express themselves, boost confidence, and see the world differently.

"Sharing my poems and encouraging pupils to create their own feels like a real privilege.

"With the Isle of Wight’s first Poet Laureate programme launching next year, it’s an exciting time for poetry locally and nationally.”

Schools across England can register for the programme for free here.