Writers in Residence
Sage has provided Writers in Residence to work with
primary school children in the area.
The scheme works in slightly different ways according
to the specific school's requirements, but generally the project
provides workshops that focus on children as storytellers, often
linked to specific literacy goals. The work can be tailored to particular
themes or curricular topics, whilst celebrating a multitude of cultural
traditions, pitched at the right level of understanding for the
children involved.
Through the use of games and exercises on story-structure,
character and setting the children are encouraged to use both spoken
and written language with confidence. By blending words, movement
and music the workshops also ensure that everyone is fully engaged.
Elfrida School chose to work with Chrissie
Gittins, a Poet in Residence, whilst in other schools the support
was provided by a Writer, working alongside an Illustrator, to really
bring the work to life for the children.
Kevin Graal
is one of the Writers who has worked in Sage schools, he is an experienced
storyteller and educator, with an extensive repertoire of traditional
stories, riddles, songs and games from around the world. His work
combines playful improvisation with a keen sensitivity to the needs
of each group, with finely-tuned performances that are filled with
laughter, magic and imagination.
