Sparkling Literacy Festival Ignites Imaginations
A host of visiting authors and theatrical performances created a profound impact for children who were enthralled and inspired by the week-long literacy festival at Ramsgate Arts Primary.
They included performance poet Harry Baker who worked with Year 5 and 6 pupils to create poems to share with their parents; Roopa Farooki who discussed her book series The Double Detectives and then helped children create their own Haiku's; and Seterah Franklin who shared a poem about the rainforest with Reception and Year 1 groups.
It was just part of a hugely successful event that explored and encouraged the love of a wide range of literature.
Deputy Head of School Danny Holliday explained the ethos of the festival: “It is an invaluable opportunity to ignite a love for reading and writing in our students. It not only fosters creativity and critical thinking but also builds confidence in their ability to express themselves.
“By immersing children in a week of storytelling, books, and writing activities, we empower them to see the power of language in shaping their world, all while making learning an exciting and memorable experience.
“The impact is profound—boosting literacy skills, enhancing imagination, and encouraging a lifelong passion for learning.”
Other activities included author David Whitehouse explaining his writing process to Year 2 and Year 4 children and talking about imagination, exploring some of his books and interview techniques.
Em Cosh treated pupils to an exclusive read of the author/illustrator’s new book Kip and The Squiggledoodle and Year 2/3 created their own creatures.
Music conductor Naomi Hammerton collaborated with Years3/4 to make their own songs, while teacher Brun Cialis shared his poetry talents with Year 1 leading to wonderful collaborative work.
As part of World Book Day during the festival children and staff shared their favourite stories in classrooms, corridors and on the playing fields.
Editor in Chief of RED magazine Sarah Tomczak held workshop sessions with Years 5/6 pupils who learned how an article is created, looking at headlines and use of grammar including puns, while author Story Kween discussed stories, songs and musical theatre in assembly.
LAS Theatre Company performed their show The Littlest Yak to Reception and Years1/2 children who were treated to an uplifting tale of self-acceptance, featuring beautiful puppets, catchy tunes and a magical set.
Various reading sessions, creative artwork and writing, making puppets, poetry recitals by pupils and visits from parents helped complete a magical event.
English Lead Claire O’Flaherty said: “We are incredibly proud of the transformative impact our festival has had on the children.
“Inviting a diverse range of authors, poets, composers, and theatre productions provided an exciting and immersive experience that broadened their understanding of language and storytelling.
“The children were inspired to explore different forms of expression and developed a deeper appreciation for the power of words. The festival enriched their current English learning and also sparked a curiosity and passion that will continue to shape their literacy journey for years to come.”
Ramsgate Arts Primary is part of the Viking Academy Trust with its partner schools Chilton Primary in Ramsgate and Upton Juniors in Broadstairs.
**Contact Head of School Nick Budge on 01843 582847