There was a celebration of all things literary when our pupils welcomed a children’s author to open the new school library – as well as put them through their own creative paces.

Pippa Goodhart spent time with all age groups at Heacham Infant and Nursery School, before officially opening our new library facilities.

Assistant Headteacher Maria Woodget is English Lead at our school, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, and oversaw the event.

“The whole school took part in the author day, with Pippa spending time in each class from Nursery to Year 2,” she said.

“Pippa led a whole-school assembly, where she shared her early experiences and spoke about her time at primary school.

“Pippa read many of her published stories to the classes. It was great to see the children so engaged and immersed in the experience.

“Author visits bring a real buzz of excitement to schools. When children meet the person behind a story – particularly ones that they are already familiar with – the books feel even more exciting.”

The author, who has written more than 150 titles, including the Winnie the Witch series under the pseudonym Laura Owen, also involved the pupils in the creative process.

Mrs Woodget explained: “In each class, Pippa worked with the children to create and rehearse a new story. In Year 1, they created a story called the ‘The Barbecued Dragon’.

“Later in the day, she revisited the classroom to see how their stories had developed. She was very impressed by the illustrations and imaginative ideas that the children had.

“Children love hearing how characters are dreamed up, and activities like drawing or helping tell a story boost their confidence and spark imagination.”

The visit came to a close with a celebration of the library, which was created from a previously unused space.

Mrs Woodget continued: “An unused classroom has been transformed into a large, exciting library. It is the heart of the school, full of activity and curiosity. It is a new space where children can gather, explore books, and enjoy learning.

“The PTA had a huge role in the project. Through their fundraising and amazing work, they were able to purchase over 200 new books for the library, as well as contribute towards other resources and furniture.”

She added: “The library is a busy place that the children love to visit. Classes visit at least weekly, there is a Book Club, and we have Reading Leaders who are elected from each of the classes.

“Pippa and the children in Book Club had a special party session in the library where they shared books in a smaller group, and were able to talk and ask Pippa lots of questions.”