Dyslexic Milton Keynes teenager wins national writers' competition

Ellanean Jarvis, from Milton Keynes, has been chosen as the key stage three winner of the Explore Learning Writers’ Awards (ELWAs), which saw thousands of entries from children aged four to 14 submitted from across the country.

The theme for this year’s long-running competition was hidden talents, with BBC Radio DJ Greg James a fitting choice for celebrity guest judge as he himself has authored the Kid Normal book series about discovering a secret passion.

The 13-year-old's 500-word entry about dyslexia being her hidden talent was selected as one of three winners by Greg. The piece was also submitted in different colours to help those with dyslexia read it.

Winners were chosen based on creativity, rather than spelling, grammar or technical factors, giving children the chance to let their imaginations run wild.

Ellanean’s mother Cerus Jarvis said: “When we got the news that Ellanean had won her key stage, both Ellanean’s grandmother and I burst into tears. We are beyond proud of Ellanean and her achievement.”

Ellanean also won an iPad, smart keyboard and an Apple Pencil plus £250 in experience vouchers towards her own passion and talents.

Bill Mills, CEO of Explore Learning, said: “On behalf of Explore Learning I want to extend my congratulations to Ellanean on being crowned the Key Stage 3 winner. Ellanean has done a fantastic job beating off thousands of other entries across the country and Greg was clearly impressed with her story.

"Ellanean’s story really showed her vibrant imagination and I hope she keeps up the writing."

Ellanean’s story has been celebrated by global charity Made by Dyslexia who have shared it across their social platforms.