As an organization that is dedicated to improving literacy levels among primary school children in the UK, Schoolreaders was delighted to attend the Oxford Literary Festival and listen to a live poetry session by Joseph Coelho, an award-winning children's author and poet, and the current children's laureate!
The festival was a fantastic opportunity for Schoolreaders to network with other literacy-focused organizations, and spread the word about the amazing work being done by our volunteers to support children's reading.
The live session by Joseph Coelho was a particular highlight of the festival. His passion for writing and his ability to connect with young readers was evident, and his poems were thought-provoking, funny and very engaging.
The session was also interactive, as Joseph led the children in the audience and coached them on how to write their own poems. They also had the opportunity ask questions and share their thoughts about his work, and a few brave youngsters even got the chance to perform poetry as animals on stage!
Seeing the children respond so positively to Joseph Coelho's work and poetry prompts was a powerful reminder of the transformative power of literature.
After the session, children and adults alike had the opportunity to meet Joseph Coelho and have their books signed by him.
Schoolreaders will continue to have a presence at children's event throughout the Oxford Literary Festival, so if you see us, do stop and say hello!