Derry schoolboy takes top prize in Foyle Poetry Contest

Primary 6 pupil Sonny Whitehouse from St Oliver Plunkett Primary School, Strathfoyle, has been awarded first prize in the Key Stage 2 category of this year’s Foyle Schools' Poetry Competition.

The theme for Key Stage 2, “Voices,” invited young writers to challenge the old saying that “children should be seen and not heard.” Instead, pupils were encouraged to speak their truth and raise their voices about the issues that matter most to them.

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The competition asked children to explore what they are passionate about, what they want to change in their community or the world, and how they choose to express themselves. By focusing on “voices,” the theme highlighted the many ways young people can share their stories, stand up for what is right, and express their hopes for the future.

Through poetry, pupils across the Foyle area celebrated diversity, kindness, and friendship—imagining a world where everyone feels they belong.