Throughout June and July, Professor Scarlett Thomas from the University of Kent visited Sittingbourne Community College, Canterbury Academy, Brompton Academy and Astor College to read from her popular ‘Worldquake’ series and talk about being a writer. Scarlett met students ranging from year 6-8 who have all taken part in School of English projects earlier in the year (approximately 120 students across all four schools) and spent time discussing how she prepares to write her books, as well as the world and characters that feature in the ‘Worldquake’ series. The students thought about their own strengths and talents, and what magic they could find in them, taking part in exercises to discover their magical ‘kharakters’ inspired by the books. All of the students who took part received a copy of ‘Dragon’s Green’ which Scarlett signed and personalised, and all four schools received copies of ‘The Chosen Ones’ for their libraries.
The feedback from all of the schools involved has been extremely positive:
‘Thanks so much to everyone for making this possible – especially Scarlett!
The students were transfixed by Scarlett talking about her inspiration and writing style. They were even more thrilled to receive their own signed copy of ‘Dragon’s Green’ and a sneaky peek into ‘The Chosen Ones’.
We had a wide ranging selection of students involved, including higher attainers and those with SEND, which I think showed the very board appeal of these stories, not least from the librarian who is impatiently awaiting volume 3!’
– Librarian at Brompton Academy
If you would like more information about this activity, please contact outreach@kent.ac.uk