Local schoolchildren meet children’s writer in special storytelling event

The Harmony Trust welcomed acclaimed screenwriter and children’s author Frank Cottrell-Boyce.

All Year 5 children from the 15 academies came together to meet Mr Cottrell-Boyce, with all Oldham and Tameside children (Greenhill, Northmoor, Richmond, Westwood, Alt and Greenfield Academies) providing the live audience at Northmoor Academy.

Children were able to ask questions directly to Frank using their 1-2-1 devices funded by The Harmony Trust as part of its ‘Harnessing Technology Maximising Learning’ Strategy.

Jessica Hainsworth, Director of Education and co-founder of the Harmony Trust’s ‘Read, Achieve, Succeed’ Strategy, said: “At the heart of Read, Achieve, Succeed is a commitment to all children that they will develop the skill of reading for both pleasure and purpose.

"Harmony author events bring reading to life for our children. Frank is an inspirational writer responsible for a wealth of high-quality children’s literature.

"We are delighted that he agreed to come and work with so many of our children today.

"We would like to thank Madeleine Lindley as our strategic partner for making this event possible.”

In total, around 750 children were able to listen Frank discuss his novels, especially his new book ‘Noah’s Gold’, and all children have been gifted a signed copied of one of Frank’s books.

As always, the experience of the children is the most important part of any event.

Mahir, from Northmoor Academy, said: “It was the best thing ever. Frank has the best stories.”

Eshan added: “It was like a new world for me. I loved how Frank read to us the stories.

"The best parts were the stories.”

The Harmony Trust is a multi-academy and school-led organisation based in Oldham, Tameside and Derby.

The Trust was set up in February 2014 with its core aim being to raise attainment in local schools. 

The Trust has the highest aspirations for its pupils, parents and staff members. 

Madeleine Lindley sells children’s books and teacher resources to schools in and around Greater Manchester from their centre in Chadderton.

Madeleine Lindley Book Centre has become an authority to the thousands of teachers who trusted them for recommendations from the 8,000 children’s books published every year.

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