Pupils from four local primary schools have enjoyed meeting award-winning authors and illustrators, taking part in creative workshops and discovering a new love of reading at this year’s Bath Children’s Literature Festival.
Children from Weston All Saints Primary School and Roundhill Primary School in Bath, Castle Primary School in Keynsham and Pensford Primary School near Bristol attended events during the 10-day festival, which ran from 25 September to 4 October.
All four schools are members of The Partnership Trust, a multi-academy trust comprising 17 first, primary and special schools across Bath and North East Somerset and Somerset.
Inspiring the next generation of scientists
On Monday 28 September, Year 5 and 6 girls from Weston All Saints Primary School met writer and scientist Dr Shini Somara, who discussed her new book Scientists Making a Difference. Dr Somara introduced pupils to the wide range of careers available in science, from laboratory technicians to CEOs, inspiring the children to consider the many opportunities offered by the subject.
Meanwhile, Year 2 pupils from Roundhill Primary School travelled by bus to Bath Guildhall on Tuesday 29 September to meet author and illustrator Jarvis, creator of the much-loved Bear and Bird series. The children enjoyed hearing about his work and discovering the creative process behind his stories and illustrations.
Bringing favourite characters to life
Year 4 pupils from Castle Primary School in Keynsham were treated to a lively session with Liz Pichon, author and illustrator of the hugely popular Tom Gates books.
Kelly Sessions, Headteacher at Castle Primary School, 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 attended two festival events. Years 5 and 6 from Kingfisher class joined a time-travelling workshop with M G Leonard, creator of the Time Keys series, while Years 3 and 4 took part in an Agents of S.U.I.T. workshop with author and illustrator John Patrick Green.
Encouraging a lifelong love of reading
Sarah Savage, Director of School Improvement (Curriculum and Assessment) at The Partnership Trust, 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.”
The festival provided pupils with opportunities to meet the creators of their favourite books, explore new stories and develop their enthusiasm for reading, writing and creativity.
