The pupils at Manor House School, from Nursery into Seniors embraced World Book Day this year. Pupils benefited from a range of activities across the week organised by Librarian and Archivist, Mrs Marriott, with events to celebrate the importance and value of books. Pupils were reminded that some children do not have access to books and were encouraged to get involved in a book swap and bring in book donations for The Children’s Book project.
Our Year 10 delivered their own assembly to the Prep School where they spoke about their favourite books and why they recommended them. The younger pupils enjoyed hearing from older peers, who the younger girls look up to and consider role models. This was especially important for any reluctant readers who hopefully will have been inspired to pick up a book.
The World Book Day highlight is always the dressing up. The children’s costumes were creative and imaginative as always. Wednesday from The Addams Family was a popular choice this year.
Kindergarten and Key stage 1 pupils enjoyed meeting author Nigel McGee who read from his book, Bite the Shark. Ophelia A and Lottie G’s illustrations, inspired by the story, won them a signed copy of the book.
Pupils from Nursery up to Year 8 enjoyed Creative Writing workshops by author of Looking for Emily, Fiona Longmuir. Through Q&A’s, they were able to ask questions about the process of writing a book and listen to what inspired her.
As a way to remind pupils that Teachers read for pleasure too, Head of English, Mrs Lorenz devised a ‘Book Shelfie’ competition where pupils had to guess which curated book shelf belonged to which member of staff. It was harder than it sounds!
Storytime, was not limited to the Early Years, with our ‘Drop Everything and Read’ sessions. Teachers rotated between classes and read to different classes and year groups. The Teachers enjoyed getting to know pupils who they don’t directly teach as they engaged over books.
Even the Catering Team got involved, hosting a Harry Potter themed lunch.
