Type of Artist:
Storytelling
Talk
Writing workshop (Murder Mystery)
Any age (3 – 18) depending on type of session
Storytelling (3 – 5)
Talk (5 – 18)
Writing workshop (Murder Mystery) (11+)
Maximum of 3 x 1 hour sessions, preferably 2 in the morning, 1 in the afternoon, plus Storytelling session for youngest children if required
60 minutes for talk or workshop,
20 - 30 minutes for storytelling (for nursery/reception), plus time for signing afterwards
I’m very flexible in my approach, and am always open to ideas – if there are particular themes/areas teachers are keen to cover I can tailor sessions to suit individual schools and groups.
Live in South West England, but will travel anywhere if overnight expenses are met.
Either car @40p/mile or train, depending on venue
Yes
Beyond the Wall
Buffalo Soldier
Apache Warrior
Flotsam and Jetsman and the Groof
Mondays are Murder
We had an absolutely fantastic day with Tanya on Monday- I have had so much really positive feedback from staff and students which is great to hear. The students enjoyed hearing her anecdotes and found her really approachable and personable- they found they could ask her anything. Often students can find visitors intimidating and they really did not find this the case with Tanya- so she was an ideal visitor here.
The Year group sessions went really well- the students were full of positive remarks as they left and a lot purchased books to have signed. Some students commented that her books looked really good because they had more 'substance' than 'silly girly books' which are on offer to their age group. We are going to be including 'Buffalo Soldier' in our Year 9 Summer Reading Challenge- a few of the girls have started to read it already.
At lunch time, Tanya spent time with a few students (members of Book Clubs/Student Librarians) and answered their questions about careers/being an author/what to read/etc- they absolutely loved having this opportunity to speak with such a successful author in such an informal way.
Royal Masonic School
"Your pitch and pace and wonderfully entertaining humour fitted each of the age ranges that you targeted. Your vibrant and humorous storytelling was completely absorbing and very much appreciated. We can't wait for your return in the future, our anticipation sharpened by getting to know you this time. Thank you just seems inadequate, we so enjoyed meeting you and listening to all your anecdotes."
Helen Young, Lewannick CP School Cornwall
"Thank you so much for the fabulous afternoon! The Y6 teacher was stunned by how amazingly well her class listened! My kids just adored it - they said their faces ached from all the laughing and that they are going to treasure the autograph."
Sarah Burnett-Gardener, Riverside Primary
"We are writing to thank you for your sparkling contribution to the festival last week and to say that your impact on the young people and the adults was really quite marked – not only did you charm and engage them, you inspired them.... Thank you for being involved, and for your inspiring contribution. Your impact on young writers and readers cannot be underestimated." Ray Speakman, West Midlands Gifted and Talented Partnership
"Creative writing has never been more interesting. The students created some truly unique work that all of them will remember, cherish and enjoy for a long time."
Holly Sum, West Somerset Community College.
"The whole day was such a success, and the enthusiasm and inspiration you generated were amazing. Staff and students have sought me out to say how much they enjoyed it and to pass on their thanks to you. One of our new teachers said it was the best day she has ever spent in a school!
M.Wiggins, Ryde Academy.
Beyond the Wall won the Historical Association's Young Quills Award (14+ category).