The prizes were founded by Dr W E Collins for the encouragement of English Literature among graduates and undergraduates of Victoria University of Wellington. The prizes are awarded annually on the recommendation of the Head, School of English, Film and Theatre.

The prizes are awarded to students whose work has been of outstanding merit in:
a. 100-level English Literature courses
b. 200-level English Literature courses
c. 300-level English Literature courses.

The prize for work at 300-level is awarded to a student in English who has completed a Bachelor of Arts degree with English as the major subject and who in the year following the award is proceeding to a degree of Bachelor of Arts with Honours in English.

The value of the prizes is determined after consideration of the income from the fund. Any prize not awarded will be added to the fund.

Recipients are encouraged to spend part of the prize money on a book, or books.

Recipients will be asked to write a letter of thanks, which will be forwarded appropriately.

$500 each (subject to available funds)

No application required

Students must be enrolled in:
a. 100-level English Literature courses
b. 200-level English Literature courses
c. 300-level English Literature courses