Many thanks to Kim for letting us know about this great new project coming out from St Catherine’s. Ed
The adage “From small acorns great oak trees grow” could not be more relevant for the children and young people at St Catherine’s in Ventnor.
During the second half of 2007 a small group of learners were set the challenge of writing about their favourite things in terms of a verse or poem in their English class.
As Heather Whatley, one of the English teachers explained …
“Young people often think poetry is out of their reach or too difficult, so we discussed with examples how poets express their own feelings.
The class then set about expressing their thoughts in a wide variety of styles reflecting their individuality.”
The results from the original group were so inspiring that others felt encouraged to put their thoughts in writing also and within a few months every child and young person had contributed.
Suzanne Hudson, Director of Development, explained …
“The poems and thoughts within the collection exemplify the feelings and emotions of our children and young people. They deserved to be read and appreciated by a wider audience and that is when we thought about publishing a book. Although the Book of Verse has only been available this past week, it is proving so popular that we are anticipating another print run.”
Price £5, the Book of Verse is available directly from St Catherine’s (857209) and will be available to purchase at the annual Summer Fair on Friday 27 June and in the St Catherine’s Charity Shop, 46 High Street Ventnor, opening for a two-week period from Monday 30 June.
All proceeds from the book will support the children and young people at St Catherine’s.
Painting by Maria Ward of St Catherine’s reproduced courtesy of the school and copyright remains with them.
