An Author in the Classroom

What you do need in order to work with primary age children is an open mind, a curious nature and be able to pass on your love of writing, and stories to children. You need kindness and an understanding that all children bring a different quality

The Big Ship Sailed

This is a playground song from my childhood and it came to mind this week as we approach the end of September. I remember a life changing event on the last day of September a decade ago.

School’s Out For Summer!

It is the end of the school year and my work as Author in the Classroom has ended until September. So, back to the day job of being an Author and guess what I am writing about? Quite by coincidence, my next publication will be a Non-Fiction book for writers called: How to be an Author in the Classroom

Challenge that Squinting Modifier!

My crusade to liberate literacy and develop creative writing in KS2, suffered a setback today. I discovered what a squinting modifier is!* Arghhh! I have just completed a project to deliver over 40 creative writing workshops in seven schools creating poetry, stories and non-fiction writing. In my sessions, we start with a warm up, which

Author in the Classroom

Over the past five years, I have worked in dozens of schools delivering a wide range of creative writing programmes. This work enables me to write. The two activities of writing and tutoring are symbiotic; being an author adds validation to being a creative writing tutor and devising and delivering workshops inspires my writing.

Falling in Love with the Adventures of Mole

I have spent almost every day, so far this year developing A Month of Writing Adventure for children. It is a combination of a teaching guide and creative notebook which I am sure will excite even the most reluctant writer.

Hold The Fronted Adverbials

The fear of getting it wrong is prevalent amongst children in many of the schools I work in. It stifles creativity, curiosity and engagement. And disengaged children don’t learn very much at all.

Writing Firsts for 2021

My notebook habit is strong and evolved. I have drawers full of notebooks dating back several decades. When I am seeking inspiration, or if there is nothing to watch on telly, I will occasionally browse these notebooks and find nuggets of inspiration.

Between Times

As we reach the bridge between 2020 and 2021 we can look back over the distance we have travelled and we can see just how much the landscape has changed around us. And we can look forward into 2021, into the mist of uncertainty.

My 2020 Writing Life

Some may say that 2020 has been rubbish and in some ways it has. I have been able to explore new skills and new audiences for my work.