The wonderful world of children’s literature has leapt off the page and into Newington Community Primary School in Ramsgate – and the message was loud and clear: ‘We love books!’
As part of World Boy Day boys and girls and staff dressed as their favourite characters. The impressive range of weird and wonderful outfits spotted in classrooms and around the school included witches, wizards, princesses, Harry Potter characters, Willy Wonka, the Esiotrot and other Roald Dhal stars, fairies (good and bad), Where’s Wally, Mary Poppins, and even a green alien in underpants.
There were a host of book-based activities plus special visits to enhance the love of literature. These included the Lisa Payne drama workshops that transported early years and Key Stage 1 children back to the lands of dinosaurs and fairytales.
Meanwhile local author Inky Willis was also on hand to chat with Key Stage 2 pupils and unveil her new spellbinding book Scribble Witch that captivated her young audience.
The school’s lead English teachers Hannah Pullman and Freya Searle co-ordinated a packed week of events culminating in a colourful end-of-week fair in the main hall for pupils and families.
The event celebrated children’s authors with a number of activities and games linked to popular stories such as Charlotte’s Web, Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Dr Seuss.
The English leads said: “It has been wonderful to see children engage with the range of activities this week and it has highlighted that World Book Day is about celebrating all aspects of reading, including authors, illustrators and storytellers.
“There has been a real buzz around the school as pupils, parents and staff have helped books and stories come alive. Children enjoyed the opportunity to explore a world of different stories that will continue to ignite their imaginations.
“Reading is part of our everyday lives so it is important to encompass a reading culture and a love of reading within the school. Remember, reading is for everyday…not just World Book Day.”
Head Teacher Cliff Stokes described the whole week as “a wonderful way to further encourage our children to engage with the many fantastic stories and tales that await them simply by opening a book and turning the first page.”
He added: “Fostering a love of reading is very important. The children have gained so much from this special week – it reinforces our belief that enjoying books and embracing literature is a vital part of their daily lives at school and at home.”