Ten students from St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School in Stourport on Severn participated in a captivating storytelling event as part of World Book Day. Organised by Barratt Homes, the event took place at a show home within The Pearls housing development, where professional storyteller Mark Fraser engaged the young audience with a series of imaginative tales.
The storytelling session allowed the students to immerse themselves in a unique environment, enhancing their appreciation for literature. Michael Goodall, headteacher at St Bartholomew’s, expressed his enthusiasm: “It was a fantastic opportunity to visit the new housing development and offer our children another fantastic experience for World Book Day. The children certainly loved the environment and were impressed by the site.”
World Book Day, celebrated annually, aims to encourage children to read for enjoyment and education. The initiative seeks to ensure that every child and young person has the opportunity to own a book. This commitment to fostering literacy aligns with the goals of the event at The Pearls.
According to Adrian Evans, managing director at Barratt Homes West Midlands, initiatives like this play a significant role in community engagement. “Events such as these allow us to make a difference in the communities in which we build and encourage skills such as reading, writing, listening, and creativity amongst local children,” he stated. “We were pleased the children of St Bartholomew’s CE Primary School could join us at The Pearls for a fantastic storytelling session.”
The collaboration between Barratt Homes and local schools highlights the importance of community involvement in educational activities. By providing children with access to storytelling, the event not only promoted reading but also created lasting memories for the students involved. Such experiences are vital for nurturing a love for literature and stimulating creativity among young learners.
