Our Lady Queen of Martyrs – Louise Jinks

Just a quick note to say thank you so much for coming to see the children at OLQM last week. The children were utterly transfixed! They’ve been talking about your visit all week and it’s led to some wonderful writing, especially among some of our more reluctant writers.

 Acomb Primary – Mel Batey

Steve’s workshop was thoroughly engaging and introduced us all brilliantly to the characters and the story.  His beautiful props helped to transport the children into Agnes’ world.

All Saints School, York – Sarah Firm 

Stephen led a brilliant workshop on Agnes and the Birdman for All Saints’ Library. Students were tantalised by his display of objects, particularly the model of a mysterious flying machine hanging above them. As an experienced teacher, Stephen knew exactly how to pitch the session for years 7-9. After an engaging reading, he explained his sources of inspiration utilising his intriguing objects. Students were spellbound and particularly valued the opportunity to ask him questions. A testament to the power of the visit is that our 6 copies of the book are all checked out with a waiting list (several months later). In particular I saw a significant interest in reading kindled in our year 7 boys. Students loved the character of Agnes, who is intelligent, resilient, courageous and loyal. Her character and story are so compelling, I found myself totally engrossed, willing her to succeed. The powerful message I got from the book is to keep trying no matter what obstacles you face.

Osbaldwick Primary Academy – Collette Young

Stephen provided the class with a wonderful introduction to his book, Agnes & the Birdman. They were fascinated by the lovely model of the flying machine that he brought and the inclusion of role play went down really well. Stephen related to the children very well and they were engaged for the whole session. It was great for the children to be introduced to such a wonderful historical character as many of them were not familiar with Leonardo. It provided me with an opportunity to discuss the artistic side of the man and promote figure drawing. The book is well pitched for Y5 to Y8 and contains lots of good vocabulary to stimulate writing.  The themes of perseverance, imagination, bravery and young and old working together all seemed relevant plus it’s always good to discover a strong female character.

Liv – Woodthorpe School  Having the author in to read his own work was inspiring and really interesting to listen to how he told his story. The first chapter of the book is really gripping, I couldn’t wait to read the rest of it!

Bethany  – I loved the drama workshop because it brought the story to life. It was great to have the opportunity to take the role of a character.