Wes Magee, an award-winning author for children and adults, visited Roseberry Primary School in Billingham during Poetry week. Capturing the children’s attention with his charisma and love for poetry, Wes carried out writing workshops with pupils across the school.
Roseberry Primary school pupils created several poems with the help of Wes, including ‘Under the ocean’, a poem created by year three inspired by their class table names.
“All of the work the pupils have created has been extremely imaginative and well presented, it has been a pleasure to spend the day at Roseberry Primary School. Together we have written a set of imaginative poems that I hope have inspired the children,” said Wes Magee.
The award-winning author has published six poetry collections for adults, more than 100 books for young readers, and has visited schools across the globe with his workshops.
Roseberry Primary School’s Year 3 teacher Miss Fletcher organised the day. “Not many of the children have experienced poetry before and it was a great opportunity for a local author to come in and work with the children to celebrate National Poetry Day. The pupils were really engaged; he has a lot of character and is extremely witty!”
We asked Leo, aged seven, what his favourite part of the day was. He said, “Everything! Especially writing a poem with Wes.”
Miss Shepherd, a Year 2 teacher at Roseberry added, “Wes was excellent, he was really funny and the children thoroughly enjoyed working with him in the workshop. Throughout the entire day, he was enthusiastic and encouraging, which kept the children engaged and they loved his actions too.”
Ava aged six, who loves writing stories; had the opportunity to work with Wes in a workshop. She said, “We worked with Wes on some rhymes, it was really fun!”
Head teacher Maggie Fearnley said, “Wes Magee’s visit to Roseberry was educational, fun and inspiring. Wes’ approach to teaching poetry and writing was brilliant to witness; the children thoroughly enjoyed their day.”