15th March 2024

Joseph Coelho joins Ark for World Book Day

A highlight in the school calendar, World Book Day always brings our staff and students together to celebrate a love of reading.

This year, Ark was delighted to welcome Children’s Laureate, Joseph Coelho.

Coelho, an Ark Putney alumnus, started the day by reciting one of his poems and answering questions from students.

Classes also participated in Coelho’s poetry workshops and some children wrote submissions for our first network-wide poetry competition on the theme, ‘Where I Live and Learn’

The winners will receive a trophy with a message from Coelho, and the runners-up will receive a signed book.

Congratulations to our winners:

Primary

• First place: Ayah, Year 5 from Ark Tindal Primary, sent a video submission describing the positive experience of going to school, the joy of books and playing with her friends.
• Second place: Ishaq, Year 3 from Ark Issacc Newton, wrote about travelling far and wide, following rainbows and kites, and always having fun.
• Third place: Rosa, Year 5 from Ark Blacklands, was inspired by the seasonal changes she saw in her hometown of Hastings.

Secondary

• First place: Margot, Year 8 from Ark Bolingbroke, shared the chaos of teenage life.
• Second place: Emaan, Year 7 from Ark Victoria, wrote about gratitude and appreciation for the place we call home.
• Third place: Ayah, Year 7 from Ark Putney, explored the peacefulness of gardens and nature.