In my role as Project Manager, I had the opportunity to lead the “My Right to Write” programme, an innovative extracurricular initiative designed to combine art and writing to inspire Year 3 children. This programme, a collaboration with Cartwheel Arts, Rochdale Council, and local primary schools, aims to make learning more engaging and enjoyable for young students.

Combining Art and Writing for Year 3 Students

The “My Right to Write” programme was developed based on evidence-based research, highlighting the effectiveness of blending art with writing to enhance literacy skills. Our goal was to create a fun and creative learning environment where children could express themselves beyond the standard school curriculum.

Collaborative Effort with Artists and Writers

We partnered with talented artists Lubna Ali and Dani Lovett, and experienced writer Nicola Schofield, who worked directly with the children. Their expertise was crucial in helping the students develop both their writing and artistic skills over six structured sessions.

• Narrative Focus: The first three sessions focused on narrative writing, guiding the children to create vivid setting descriptions and corresponding artworks. This approach helped them visualize their stories and bring their ideas to life through a combination of words and visuals.
• Non-Fiction Focus: The following three sessions emphasized non-fiction writing. The children learned to craft persuasive letters and produced additional pieces of art to complement their writing. This balanced approach ensured that they could explore different forms of expression.

Expanding the “My Right to Write” Programme

The success of this project not only benefited the participating students but also helped refine the “My Right to Write” programme for broader implementation. With the support of the Rochdale School Improvement Team, we aim to expand this programme to more schools, reaching a larger audience of young writers and artists.

Impact on School Readiness and Engagement

Funded by the Rochdale School Improvement Team, this programme draws on research from the education sector and the expertise of literacy consultants and artists. The “My Right to Write” initiative is designed to increase school readiness and boost engagement among students, making a positive impact on their overall learning experience.

I’m excited to see how the “My Right to Write” programme will continue to grow, inspiring more children to explore the creative possibilities of combining art and writing.