📚 About the Awards
The Beyond Inclusion Book Awards were created to shine a light on children’s stories that truly matter, stories that reflect difference with care, spark empathy, and help children feel seen and understood.
As a parent-led organisation working closely with nurseries, schools, and families, we’ve seen firsthand the power of inclusive storytelling. These awards were born from a belief that the right book at the right time can change how a child sees themselves and others.
Each year, we honour one outstanding book that champions inclusion in a meaningful way, and share it widely across our network of educators, families, and settings. This isn’t just a badge, it’s a platform to help your story reach the children who need it most.
📚 Award Structure
Each year we select:
1 Book of the Year Winner
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Trophy + digital “Award Winner” badge
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Website and social media spotlight
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Author Q&A feature
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Pre-recorded reading hosted on our website for World Book Day
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Mini Resource Pack linked to your book bespoke designed by Beyond Words Creative
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Promotion to all the schools and nurseries in our Beyond Inclusion Program
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Invitation to join our Beyond Words Author Programme (if aligned)
Up to 10 Recommended Reads
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“Beyond Inclusion Recommended Read” badge
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Featured on our website + downloadable guide shared with schools
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Social media promo and link to purchase
We don’t run categories or shortlists. Just one overall winner, and a curated list of books we believe deserve to be seen and shared.
🗓️ 2026 Awards Timeline
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Submissions open: 1st July 2025
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Submissions close: 30th November 2025
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Judging period: December 2025 – 31st Janunary 2026
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Winner announced: February 2026
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Live reading released to our partner schools and nurseries: 5th March 2026
💷 Entry Details
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Entry fee: £20 per book
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Format: Submit a PDF version of the book (no physical copies required)
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Open to self-published and traditionally published authors
🧑⚖️ Judging
Our panel includes:
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A parent/carer with lived experience
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A SEN educator
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A children’s author or illustrator
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Jo, founder of Beyond Words Creative
Judging criteria:
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Inclusion & Representation
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Impact & Empathy
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Age Appropriateness
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Creative Quality
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Authenticity & Sensitivity
📬 Submissions Open Until 30th November 2025
