On Friday 8th October, our English Department and Library were delighted to co-host an exciting visit by children’s author Tamsin Cooke, whom Mrs Shamsolahi had invited through the Appledore Book Festival.

In the morning, Prep 6 and Form 1 (Year 7) pupils attended an action packed presentation with Tamsin. Volunteers had a chance to impersonate Scarlet, heroine of Cat Burglar and Mission Gone Wild, and participate in the pretend filming of an improvised script. Mr Foale made an impressive and unforgettable debut as a zombie teacher!

The afternoon session saw Form 1 stretch their imagination and writing skills as they worked in groups to create a plot from three short prompts. The result was a diverse mix of very imaginative stories. The pupils had done their research beforehand and were able to ask Tamsin very perceptive questions about her work, inspiration, and characters. Many had books signed at the end of a very successful day, which brought the wonderful world of books and writing a little closer for everyone who attended.