The Young Playwrights Award is a free, open-access competition for any teenager in the UK interested in writing a play, whether independently or with a school or group.

Your play can be about anything you want or imagine: something that inspires you, a story that hasn’t been told before, or ideas that challenge the world around you. To help you get the most out of the experience, the Royal Court also offer support and advice at every step.

Entries will next open in January 2026, but you can start reading about the competition, watching the Royal Court’s video masterclasses and thinking about what to write at any time.

To find out more about the Young Playwrights Award and to view the Royal Court’s resources, head to their website.