Radio newsreader to judge Rothwell academy trust's poetry competition

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A popular radio newsreader who grew up in Northamptonshire will be the guest judge for an academy trust's poetry competition.

Chris Smith - best known for reading the news on BBC Radio 1 - will be picking the winners of a competition being run by Pathfinder Schools, a Rothwell-based trust with nine schools in Kettering, Desborough, Rothwell, Rushton and Wilbarston.

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Chris grew up in Raunds and is the co-author of children's book Kid Normal alongside Radio 1 breakfast presenter Greg James.

Chris Smith (left) with Radio 1's Greg James. Credit: Jenny SmithChris Smith (left) with Radio 1's Greg James. Credit: Jenny Smith
Chris Smith (left) with Radio 1's Greg James. Credit: Jenny Smith

Youngsters from the trust's year groups from early years up to Key Stage 4 have been invited to write a poem based on the theme of 'Heroes' - but they'll have to be quick with the competition closing at 5pm on Friday (May 22).

A Pathfinder Schools spokesman said: "Whilst we can’t be with the majority of our pupils every day, we thought this competition would be an excellent opportunity to engage our lovely children, and develop their creativity whilst celebrating their heroes."

Chris has recorded a video message to encourage people to get writing or drawing. There will be prizes of Waterstones vouchers for the winners.

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The Pathfinder spokesman added: "We can’t wait to see all of the entries and Chris’s winners.

"Chris Smith is originally from Northamptonshire and it’s wonderful to be able to collaborate with such a talented person from our county."

Pupils in Key Stage 3 and 4 can write a poem in any style but it should fit onto an A4 size piece of paper. Entries should be sent to [email protected]. Pupils in nursery and reception can draw a picture of a hero and label it rather than write a poem and send it to [email protected]. Those in Key Stage 1 and 2 can write a poem in any style but it should fit onto an A4 size piece of paper. Entries should be sent to [email protected]. All entries should be sent by 5pm on Friday and include the pupil's name and year group.