What does your imaginary monster friend look like? Tell John Lewis and you could win a Microsoft Surface for your classroom

Children can win a Microsoft Surface device for their school by creating a monster inspired by John Lewis’ Christmas advert.

The retailer has launched a prize draw that challenges primary school pupils to come up with their own imaginary friend in the spirit of Moz, the star of its popular television advert.

John Lewis’ two-minute advert (below) tells the story of a little boy called Joe, who is kept awake by a 7ft imaginary monster called Moz living under his bed. The two form a friendship and play together every evening, but staying awake through the night starts to take its toll on Joe, who can hardly keep his eyes open during the day. For Christmas, Joe receives the perfect gift of a night light, which helps him finally get some peace and quiet from Moz, and a good night’s sleep. Just as you think the ad has come to a close, Joe turns the light off and hears the familiar rumblings of his friend and is reminded that he can bring Moz back any time he thinks of him.

Children aged five to 11 can try to win their own Moz the Monster cuddly toy, a certificate and a Microsoft Surface Pro 4 for their school by creating an artwork depicting their own imaginary companion. Microsoft will deliver the Surface device to the winning school and run a workshop to recreate the winning pupil’s monster in 3D using the company’s latest software. Microsoft will also show teachers how to use the Surface to support learning in the classroom.

The A4-sized entries can be completed using pencils, paint or digital tools such as Sway or Paint 3D, or youngsters can create a collage. They also need to include a sentence explaining why their monster is fun.

Ian Fordham, Director of Education at Microsoft, said: “Microsoft is delighted to be teaming up with John Lewis to support the next generation of storytellers and creators with Moz The Monster.

“Moz has already created a world of imagination and possibility for young people across the UK and we are thrilled to be able to support and inspire young people to bring him to life around the country through Microsoft Education tools such as Sway and Paint 3D.

“Microsoft is passionate about empowering today’s students to create the world of tomorrow and through partnerships and digital experiences such as this, students can truly learn to be the makers and creators of the future.”

To enter, download the prize draw pack (above) online and send your entry to your nearest John Lewis shop. Stores will also display some of the artworks throughout December.

Emma Marchant, Manager of Sustainable Communities at John Lewis, said: “Our schools programme always encourages primary school children to think differently and get creative. This Christmas is no different, as we’re asking schools to send us their pupils’ drawings of an imaginary monster friend, telling us why he is fun.

“What is different is the amazing prize we’re offering with Microsoft – a Surface Pro 4 and a workshop on how to use it to unlock children’s creativity. The winning pupils also get their very own Moz the Monster, and their artwork will be displayed in their local John Lewis store.”

The prize draw is open to children in England, Scotland and Wales, and entries must be submitted by 11.59pm on December 1.