Talented young writers from Farnham College are celebrating after having their work selected for publication in a national creative writing competition organised by Young Writers.
The Stranger Sagas competition challenged students to write a mini saga, telling a complete story in no more than 100 words.
Several Farnham College students impressed the judges with their imaginative entries, which featured eerie mysteries, unexpected twists and compelling storytelling. Their work will now be published in the forthcoming Stranger Sagas anthology, due to be released in July 2026.
The challenge of telling a story in 100 words
Abby Williams, Level 2 Art and Design student at Farnham College, said: “Although it was certainly challenging, I found working inside the 100-word limit really heightened my awareness of the purpose of words. Anything that could be cut had to be cut, leaving only what was absolutely necessary to tell the story.
“I loved experimenting with different styles, tones of voice and genres. Creative writing is so fascinating because I can feel so immersed in perspectives or moments in time I’ve never lived.
“I was very surprised my work was chosen to be published, but mostly grateful our Creative Writing Club leader pushed me to submit it!”
Stories inspired by fear, AI and the unknown
Sophia Leigh, GCSE student at Farnham College, said: “I’ve always felt kind of influenced by the idea of losing control to something beyond what we know. So, I think part of me used that feeling in my story. It was originally much, much longer.
“One hundred words in a poem is entirely different to 100 words in a story. Writing in general has always been more about a release for me. I’ve never really felt like I could just write for fun.
“Up until recently, I only wrote stuff when I felt like I can’t say it to anyone else. So, writing creatively to me means expressing the inexpressible. I’m proud of my story for getting this far.”
Tigerlily Schofield, Level 2 Art and Design student at Farnham College, said: “What inspired my story was when I asked my mum if she would replace me with an AI bot if I passed away, and she said yes. Also, I was thinking about how many people may turn to AI to cope with the loss of their loved ones.
“I felt very glad that my story was worth being published.”
Kiya Carver, Level 3 Art and Design student at Farnham College, said: “I have a phobia of mirrors and thought this would work well as the basis for a creepy, dystopian story about entrapment!”
Students whose work will be published include Tigerlily Schofield, Isabelle Homewood, Sophia Leigh and Abby Williams.
Also selected for publication were Kiya Carver, Dmitriy Sadat and Etta Ossai.
Supporting the next generation of storytellers
Lisette Abrahams, English Teacher at Farnham College, praised the students’ achievement. She said: “Writing a story that includes characterisation, plot, narrative arc and resolution in just 100 words is extremely challenging. Our students rose to the challenge, producing stories filled with eerie mysteries and unexpected twists.
“At a time when there is increasing concern about the use of AI-generated content in creative writing, it is wonderful to work with young people who are using their own imaginations to create skilful, engaging and compelling narratives. We are incredibly proud of their success.”
The achievement highlights the creativity and literary talent of Farnham College students, whose work will now be shared with readers across the country through the published anthology.
Learn more about study programmes at Farnham College or contact Activate Learning on 0800 612 6008.