Introduction to Words That Burn

Words That Burn is a creative programme that challenges individuals to explore, express, and take action for human rights through poetry.

Explore human rights through poetry with free, age-appropriate educational resources and lesson plans designed to help students develop their own writing and performance style.

As part of the Words that Burn Programme we run literary partnerships with the Times and Sunday Times Cheltenham Literature Festival, DylanEd (the education strand of the Swansea University Dylan Thomas Prize) and the Push the Boat Out festival.

In this video, poet Deanna Rodger explores the connection between human rights and poetry, emphasising the power of poetry as a tool for self expression and inspiring young people to pick up their pen and write their own words that burn! 

Our Human Rights Education team has crafted inspiring creative resources and lesson plans that bring human rights to life through poetry. Explore the voices of incredible poets, dive into simple yet powerful activities, and spark imagination in every classroom. These resources are designed to motivate, challenge, and empower both students and teachers to express human rights in bold, creative ways.

Not sure where to start? We’ve gathered practical advice and inspiring insights from poets who know how to turn ideas into powerful words. From finding your voice to shaping your first verse, these tips will help you start writing with confidence, or build your understanding. Whether you’re exploring themes of freedom, justice, or identity, these expert suggestions will guide you every step of the way.

Dive into a powerful collection of poems exploring themes that matter. Each piece offers a unique perspective on human rights, challenging us to think, feel, and act. Alongside these works, you’ll find our directory of inspiring poets whose incredible poems feature in the Words That Burn resources. Discover their stories, explore their artistry, and let their words ignite your own creative journey.

Your feedback is so valuable. By sharing your experience with the Words That Burn teaching resources, you help us understand their impact and improve what we offer. We use feedback to evaluate success and ensure the programme continues to inspire future generations.

If you would like to share your thoughts, please take a few minutes to complete our online form and tell us how our resources have worked for you and your students. Every response makes a difference.

Prefer to get in touch directly? Email the Human Rights Education Team at [email protected].