Pupils followed a yellow brick road into a magical world of reading as a school celebrated the written word in style.
Barnard Castle Preparatory School was transformed into the enchanted Land of Oz as pupils and staff marked World Book Day, the culmination of a week-long literary festival.
Munchkins, flying monkeys, witches and lions mixed with tin men, Dorothys, wizards and scarecrows as children, aged four to 11, explored the delights of both the Wizard of Oz and the prequel Wicked.
Director of music Richard Dawson led a Wicked-themed singalong as pupils went off timetable to celebrate reading.
Follow the Yellow Brick Road was played regularly throughout the day over the school speakers at which point children had to ‘stop, drop and read’ their favourite book.
Sixth formers from senior school also dropped in to read the younger pupils stories they had written specially for the day.
Even lunch was Wicked themed and in the afternoon director of drama Scott Edwards led a specially written drama, before pupils ended proceedings with a fun book quiz.
Prep School English lead Katie Shearn said: “At Barney every day is World Book Day as we set such great store by the power of reading.
“Today has been particularly magical as we exposed the children not just to Wicked but also the original story of the Wizard of Oz, which has really inspired them in their love of reading.
“There is so much research that proves indefatigably the value of reading. Good readers become good writers; good readers become good orators. Reading unlocks the brain, increases empathy and boosts mental health and wellbeing. It truly is a magical thing.”
Categories: Barnard Castle School School News
