Sponsorship

At Ashley Blinds, we’ve always believed in the power of community, creativity and supporting opportunities for young people here in Dorset. That’s why we’re proud to once again sponsor Upton in Bloom’s Inter-School Poetry Competition 2025 — a wonderful project that brings together four local schools to celebrate imagination, nature and shared learning.

Upton in Bloom has long been known for strengthening community spirit, but in recent years their work with local schools has become something truly special. By encouraging children to explore poetry, emotions and the natural world, this competition gives young writers the space to express themselves in a way that’s both creative and calming.

You can learn more about the organisation and their community projects at uptoninbloom.org.uk

A Cosy Space for Young Writers

This year, the competition includes a beautifully designed “Writer’s Snug” located inside Lytchett Minster Parish Church. It’s a peaceful, inviting corner where children can pause, breathe and let their ideas flow.

The church has been incredibly supportive, and you can find more about their work here lytchettminsterchurch.co.uk

This nurturing environment encourages children to slow down from the busyness of school life and truly immerse themselves in their creative thoughts.

Community Collaboration at Its Best

One of our favourite parts of this project is how many local groups get involved. This year’s competition is also supported by:

Gullivers Bookshop – generously donating book vouchers for the winners

Dorset Wildlife Trust – offering inspiration and support rooted in our local nature

Working alongside passionate local organisations helps make this event something the whole community can be proud of. It’s collaboration in its truest form.

Why We Chose to Support This Project

As a family-run business, reading with our own children has always been a meaningful part of life — not just for the learning benefits, but for the connection it creates. Stories and poetry open up conversations, strengthen confidence and give children a way to express themselves that feels safe and imaginative.

Supporting a project that encourages those same positive moments for other families in our community feels incredibly important to us. Local children deserve opportunities that help them grow emotionally, socially and creatively — and this competition does exactly that.

Looking Ahead

We can’t wait to see the poems the children create this year. Whether they’re inspired by Dorset’s wildlife, the changing seasons, or their own inner world, their words always remind us why supporting local initiatives matters.

Ashley Blinds is delighted to play a small part in helping young people discover the joy of writing, reading and connecting with their community.

If you’d like to keep up with the competition or Upton in Bloom’s projects, visit uptoninbloom.org.uk