Isle of Wight primary schools were treated to visits from both mainland and local authors as part of the annual Stories in Schools scheme, organised by the team behind the Isle of Wight Story Festival.
Hundreds of students across 13 primary schools were entertained by guest authors including Paul Lyalls, a former Poet in residence for the Roald Dahl Museum, and Alex Milway, the best-selling author of the Hotel Flamingo books.
Also visiting from the mainland last week were Kev Sutherland and Kathryn Evans.
Writer and musicologist Kate Wakeling, who has been praised by The Guardian, also took part in the Stories in Schools scheme.
A plethora of local authors and storytellers including Jules Mariner, Sue Bailey, Dilly & Dally, Lottie Begg, Neal Layton, Christopher Stevens, Holly Medland, Adam Gaterell, Peter J Murray, Kathryn Rossati, Morgan Outlaw, Wonderfell and Dr Andrew Lee additionally appeared.
Ian Charles Dickens, a direct descendent of the legendary Oliver Twist author, was also on the lineup, as were local theatre groups, Ad Lib and Pink Cow.
Speaking after the event, organiser Elspeth Giddens said:
“After all the hard work from the team it is a tremendous thrill for the organisers to see the faces of children light up with excitement as they listen to authors, share their ideas and feel inspired and confident to write in their own words.”
Island storyteller Sue Bailey, who spoke at Hayland, Hunnyhill and St Mary’s Primary School said:
“It was great fun telling tales at these schools as part of the Stories in Schools programme.
“The children were avid listeners, and I know that when they are older, they will use the framework of early years stories to make their own narratives.”
Webb: The children inspired me
Debbie Webb, who also took part, added,
“Not only were the children inspired, they in turn inspired me and I now have untold stories in my head!
“It was a fabulous festival and hearing the students asking to work, asking can we do this after lunch is incredibly rewarding.”
The Isle of Wight Story Festival will return in February half term, with dates to be announced soon.
News shared by Jake on behalf of Isle of Wight Story Festival. Ed
