This week I've been in Derby, working with Village Primary and St Joseph's Primary. Georgina Houghton at Village and Angelina Brett at St Joseph's are both passionate about fostering a love of reading for pleasure and that really shows!

It was my first visit to Village Primary. I was made to feel very welcome and thoroughly enjoyed working with the large KS2 and KS1 audiences. They were impeccably behaved, joining in really well to help bring my books to life and asking some great questions. It was lovely to chat with lots of the children at the book signing the next day, which took place in Village's fantastic library space. It's a large open area in the heart of the school, with brilliant, fun displays and unique furniture (see the photos below). Ms Houghton and her team have clearly put a lot of effort and heart into it, which was wonderful to see. I hope this is the first of many visits to Village Primary!
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On the wonderful hand-covered 'book' chairs at Village |
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The fab KS2 library at St Joseph's |
It was my third visit to St Joseph's. I've always loved visiting this welcoming school, but this time was special. I don't think I've ever presented to a more engaged audience. KS2 and KS1 seemed to be hanging on my every word and it was like riding a high-energy wave of enthusiasm and warmth. The acting of the children who came up to help me was superb. I loved every second of it! The book signing the next day was brilliantly organised and took place in the awesome new KS2 library on the playground (pictured below); the KS1 library is a giant wooden castle. I couldn't think of two more perfect spaces for encouraging a love of reading.
I'm feeling very lucky and inspired to have visited two passionate schools with amazing library spaces! Thank you again!
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A lovely letter from St Joseph's. The story was dramatic and full of tension! |