Young readers inspired at Bath Children’s Literature Festival
Children across The Partnership Trust’s family of schools have enjoyed meeting with authors and taking home books at the recent Bath Children’s Literature Festival (25 September-4 October)
Pupils from Bath primary schools, Weston All Saints and Roundhill, as well as Castle Primary School in Keynsham, and Pensford Primary School near Bristol, met with inspirational authors and illustrators during the 10-day festival.
On Monday 28 September girls from years 5 and 6 at Weston All Saints Primary School listened to the writer and scientist Dr Shini Somara who was discussing her new book Scientists Making a Difference. She explained about the huge range of jobs available in science, from lab technicians to CEOs, which the students found very inspiring.
Year 2 pupils from Roundhill Primary School travelled by bus to Bath Guildhall on Tuesday 29 September to meet with children’s author and illustrator, Jarvis, the creator of the much-loved Bear and Bird series. The children were delighted to hear from him, learn about his work and gain an insight into the creative process behind his wonderful stories and illustrations.
Meanwhile Tom Gates fans from Castle Primary School in Keynsham (Year 4) met with Liz Pichon, author and illustrator of the ever-popular series.
Kelly Sessions, Headteacher at Castle said:
“The children thoroughly enjoyed Liz Pichon’s lively and engaging presentation and loved learning how to draw in her unique style through a step-by-step drawing session. It was an inspiring experience that left everyone feeling creative and excited about reading and writing.”
Pupils from Pensford Primary School near Bristol travelled twice to the Festival. Years 5 and 6 from Kingfisher class took part in a time-travelling workshop with the author M G Leonard, creator of the Time Keys series of books.
Years 3 and 4 from Pensford took part in the Agents of S.U.I.T workshop with author and illustrator John Patrick Green.
All schools are members of The Partnership Trust, a Multi Academy Trust of 17 first, primary and special schools in B&NES and Somerset.
Sarah Savage, Director of School Improvement (Curriculum and Assessment) said:
“At The Partnership Trust, we know that reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give our children. It underpins learning, broadens horizons and builds confidence. Having Bath Children's Literature Festival so close to our schools is a wonderful opportunity, enabling pupils to engage directly with authors and illustrators and inspiring them to develop a lasting love of reading."