Writer's Festival / Writers' Weeks
In 2024, after a hiatus due to pandemic disruptions, the much-awaited Writers’ Weeks returned to breathe new life into our school's writing program and boost students' creativity and imagination. Students of all ages dove headfirst into the world of writing and illustration, guided by a diverse line up of esteemed children’s authors and illustrators over the course of two exhilarating weeks.
The roster of talent gracing our school in 2024 included luminaries such as:
Janeen Brian, a prolific children’s author and poet with a staggering repertoire of over 110 books.
Tania Ingram, who brings expertise in crafting stories for middle primary students.
Charlie Archbold, not only a writer but also a content creator, with a unique perspective to both Young Adult and middle primary novels.
Mike Lucas, the dynamic force behind Shakespeare’s Bookshop, who energizes students with his poetic prowess and engaging workshops.
Danny Snell, a gifted author-illustrator, who unveils for students the secrets of bringing stories to life visually as he showcases his latest picture book ‘One Little Duck’.
Tristan Bancks, an author from Victoria who will cap off the event with his renowned writing workshops, that spark the imaginations of students in years 3/4-6.
The decision to host such a stellar line-up was intentional because we are aiming to expose our students to a wide range of writing styles and artistic expressions. These South Australian writers’ creative works transcend geographical boundaries, and are heard around the world and their ideas peak directly to the hearts and minds of our eager learners.
But why is it so crucial for students to listen to and engage with authors and illustrators?
First and foremost, these interactions foster a love for literacy that extends beyond the classroom. Meeting the creators behind the stories ignites a passion for reading that goes beyond assigned texts, encouraging students to explore books for pleasure and discovery. For reluctant readers, these encounters can be transformative, opening doors to worlds they may have never imagined.
Moreover, these sessions serve as a catalyst for student creativity. Hearing first-hand about the writing and illustrating process, from experts, inspires young minds to unleash their own storytelling and artistic talents. This not only promotes confidence but also broadens their understanding of literature and the creative industries, paving the way for future storytellers and artists.
Meeting favourite authors and illustrators in person is akin to meeting heroes, creating lasting memories and deepening connections to beloved stories. The opportunity to ask questions and engage in dialogue with these 'masters' enriches learning in ways that traditional lessons cannot replicate.
At APS, we believe in the transformative power of ink and imagination. By bringing together these incredible talents and fostering a culture of creativity and exploration, we are nurturing the next generation of readers, writers, and artists who will continue to enrich our world with their unique voices and visions.
Tristan Banks and Charlie Archbold with some students.
But why is it so crucial for students to listen to and engage with authors and illustrators?
First and foremost, these interactions foster a love for literacy that extends beyond the classroom. Meeting the creators behind the stories ignites a passion for reading that goes beyond assigned texts, encouraging students to explore books for pleasure and discovery. For reluctant readers, these encounters can be transformative, opening doors to worlds they may have never imagined.
Moreover, these sessions serve as a catalyst for student creativity. Hearing first-hand about the writing and illustrating process, from experts, inspires young minds to unleash their own storytelling and artistic talents. This not only promotes confidence but also broadens their understanding of literature and the creative industries, paving the way for future storytellers and artists.
Meeting favourite authors and illustrators in person is akin to meeting heroes, creating lasting memories and deepening connections to beloved stories. The opportunity to ask questions and engage in dialogue with these 'masters' enriches learning in ways that traditional lessons cannot replicate.
At APS, we believe in the transformative power of ink and imagination. By bringing together these incredible talents and fostering a culture of creativity and exploration, we are nurturing the next generation of readers, writers, and artists who will continue to enrich our world with their unique voices and visions.
When students engage in a Writers’ Festival and learn valuable writing and illustrating skills from leading SA authors, and illustrators who visit our school.
Each author or illustrator is a skilled and successful writer or artist. Their knowledge and insight into their craft is beyond most people’s experiences. They talk about their processes and give students an understanding of the skills they need to make their work better and at times exceptional.
Each child is an author or illustrator in their daily lives at school. Teachers strive to make them the best they can be and using experts in their fields is a successful way to push each student’s capabilities.
After meeting each author/ illustrator children become inspired by their books and this encourages them to read even more.
Who knows, your child might be a future published author or illustrator too.
Each child is an author or illustrator in their daily lives at school. Teachers strive to make them the best they can be and using experts in their fields is a successful way to push each student’s capabilities.
After meeting each author/ illustrator children become inspired by their books and this encourages them to read even more.
Who knows, your child might be a future published author or illustrator too.
Writer's Week
Some wonderful advice and tips are shared with students to help them become better authors themselves.
Adam Cece pictured here wth Zoey, Jude and Emily, explained how he developed as a writer and how he used the technique of undertaking an imaginary interviews with his characters, to work out their motivations and personaliites. |