There were 24 other children from different schools in north and central London and we were told that we were taking part in a workshop. To begin with it was a bit awkward because we did not know each other, but as things went on we got friendlier and more confident.

An experienced actor led the workshop, where we performed and discussed poems by different authors, including Michael Rosen – the Childrens' Laureate – who happened to be there in person judging the event! Children were taken away, one by one, into a backstage studio. When it was my turn, I felt nervous as I went on. It was just like ‘The X Factor'! There were five people – I assumed judges – sitting at a table. Microphones dangled above me as I took my place on the X made of sticky tape on the floor. In my own time I began reciting my poem, acting out the movements I had rehearsed. Then they asked me questions about myself and my interest in poetry.

Then I went back into the workshop and continued the work we were doing there. They gave us professional advice on expressing ourselves and how to change our voice, depending on the poem. We did choral speaking, and read things out in groups for maximum effect.

Suddenly it was all over and our parents and teachers were filing into the room to collect us. But we had a treat in store for them. They all sat down and for the next half an hour we presented a selection of well-known poems and rhymes in groups and individually. At least this time we got some applause! Michael Rosen came in, thanked us all and then read out the name of the winner who would go through to the next round. It was not me. I was worried that my budding TV career was over before it had started, but we were told that the BBC had filmed the entire session for a special programme about the project.

I felt disappointed but my friends at school told me the next day that I was their winner. Overall it was a truly enjoyable experience and it gave me more confidence with poetry. As the poem says, “Turkeys just wanna have fun”, and I certainly did.

Mabel, Year 6