To celebrate National Storytelling Week, the TH school community was thrilled to host Preacher the Storyteller, whose mesmerising tales transported pupils and staff into worlds of wonder and wisdom. With a voice that wove magic, he shared stories of fearsome dragons, delving into the rich lore of monsterology that both thrilled and taught the audience valuable lessons. Through his vivid storytelling, pupils ventured into the jungles where Anansi, the clever spider, spins his webs of wit and trickery, demonstrating the importance of intelligence over brute strength.
Pupils from Kindergarten to Year 4 were filled with awe, laughter, and the unforgettable feeling that stories — whether about mythical beasts or legendary creatures — hold the power to shape hearts and minds. Preacher’s visit reminded everyone of the beauty of oral tradition, where every tale is an invitation to explore the depths of human imagination.
Sixth formers and senior pupils were also invited to a series of talks from multi-award winning children’s author, Sufiya Ahmed. Sufiya conveyed her journey of becoming a children’s author, and girls’ and women’s rights campaigner. Amongst her books are the best-selling series ‘Rosie Raja’ that follow the adventures of a mixed Indian and British girl, who joins her father as a spy during World War Two. Sufiya also spoke about her significant young adult book, ‘Secrets of the Henna Girl’; a powerful story about the pressures on an ambitious British teenager who finds her future under threat through a forced marriage. Her works offer a meaningful blend of history, cultural exploration, and empowering themes, and importantly championing girls’ and women’s rights. Her visit was an inspiring experience for all of the students.
Thanks go to Mrs Maddison and Mrs Smith for organising these two speakers.
