A 2023 survey found that 77% of primary teachers teach poetry at least once per school term. However, nearly a quarter of schools teach it only once a year or less. Despite being a curriculum requirement, it is often rushed or "abandoned" due to timetable pressures. Research indicates that over 51% of children do not currently engage with poetry in any meaningful way.

Writing poetry can be relaxing, boosts creativity and helps with communication skills

Writing poems allows for the expression of "untranslatable" or overwhelming emotions like trauma, grief, and anxiety in a safe, constructive way.

Poetry also enhances memory, the rhythmic and musical nature of verse makes it easier to memorise which strengthens overall cognitive function and memory recall.

Free writing, without worrying too much about grammar or quality, is a great way to boost creativity and flexible thinking. Pondering multiple layers of meaning in a poem, trains the brain to handle complex, non-literal information, a skill applicable to everyday decision-making.

Some people find that writing poetry flows for them more than any other form of writing

Poetry can be fun, relatable and a tool that can be used by teachers in various other subjects.

I would like to see an increase in poetry being taught in schools.

I would also want it to be used more as a learning tool in Primary and secondary education.