School visits

I often visit schools to talk about my books, share my enthusiasm for reading, and teach creative writing.

I speak to all primary classes – Years 1-6 and Reception – and I’ve written books which are suitable for all the different age groups at primary school.

When I visit a school, I start by reading aloud from my books. I talk about why and how I write, discussing my ideas and inspirations. And I always leave lots of time for questions.

I might spend the day talking to large groups: the whole school or particular year groups. Or I teach creative writing sessions with smaller groups. Most often, I do a mixture of both: an assembly followed by some creative writing classes. 

Workshops might cover creating a character, writing a story, making a book, or writing letters and emails, and can be tailored to fit a particular school’s requirements. I might lead the children in some exercises to develop their own creativity and skills as writers, then start developing characters and creating a story which can be continued after I have gone. 

I also offer CPD sessions for teachers focusing on creativity and writing.

I have a document which explains more about my school visits: details, costs, what a day would include and involve, etc. Contact me if you would like a copy or to anything more about my school visits.

Sometimes I am lucky enough to visit a school with an illustrator.

Here is a picture of me during an event with Garry Parsons. I couldn’t see what he was drawing on the screen behind me:

Here is another photo of me and Garry visiting a school together. He’s drawing while I’m reading from The Dragonsitter.

If you would like to know more, please contact me.