A vibrant celebration of literature unfolded at the Lynn Corn Exchange on March 4, 2023, as Year 5 pupils from various schools participated in the annual West Norfolk Academies Trust Primary Literary Event. This gathering, aligned with World Book Day, marked its sixth occurrence and focused on the significance of reading for pleasure, alongside other engaging topics.
Teams of three students from schools within the West Norfolk Academies Trust and the Windmill Primary Federation showcased their public speaking skills. The participating schools included Clenchwarton, Gaywood, Heacham Junior, Snettisham, Walpole Cross Keys, West Lynn, Terrington St John, Tilney St Lawrence, Walpole Highway, and West Walton. Each team was tasked with delivering a five-minute presentation, which comprised an introduction, a main speech, and a concluding vote of thanks.
Emma Hunt, the primary English lead at the trust and organizer of the event, explained the format: “The first pupil introduces the speaker to provide the audience with a little background; the main speaker then has approximately three minutes to deliver their views on the team’s chosen topic; the final team member then delivers the vote of thanks.”
This year’s topics sparked thoughtful discussions among the young speakers. They debated whether children should be encouraged to reread their favorite books or explore new ones, the role of stories in helping children understand real-world issues, the importance of illustrations in older children’s books, representation in literature, and the impact of reading for pleasure on creativity compared to structured reading in schools.
The audience, which included fellow pupils, teachers, trustees, and trust officials, actively supported the teams. Staff members from all participating schools assisted students in writing and rehearsing their speeches.
Mrs. Hunt emphasized the value of such literary events, stating, “Public speaking opportunities give children valuable chances to build confidence and communication skills. Preparing and delivering a presentation encourages pupils to organize their ideas clearly, structure their thoughts, and express them in a way that engages an audience.”
She further highlighted the social benefits of participating in events beyond the school environment. “It allows children to meet new people, experience different perspectives, and learn from others. Engaging with a wider group of students can broaden their horizons, build resilience, and encourage collaboration and friendly competition.”
As the event concluded, certificates were presented to all participants, celebrating their efforts and achievements. The atmosphere was one of encouragement, with applause resonating throughout the hall as young speakers concluded their presentations.
These experiences not only help pupils develop confidence in unfamiliar settings but also strengthen the interpersonal skills essential for their education and future endeavors. The West Norfolk Academies Trust Primary Literary Event successfully brought together aspiring young speakers, fostering a love for literature and communication skills that will benefit them long into the future.
