School visits
Whether it's 100 kids in a woodland clearing or 25 in a classroom the result is the same - unbridled inspiration, creativity, and a bit of (manageable) mayhem.
"The kids were entranced. James knew how to talk to them, how to listen to them and how to ignite their creativity - they didn't even notice how much they were learning by making monsters! It was a pure joy to watch."
- York Literature Festival
"If you want the school session to end all school sessions...
you MUST get James in"
- Lisette Auton, author of The Secret of Haven Point
I have a background in performing and workshop-leading - 10 years of theatre in education, a (mercifully) brief stint doing stand up, a dabble in TV writing (I wrote for Shooting Stars) plus 15 years of running various writing and acting workshops for children and adults. I am a passionate advocate for imagination and creativity, both as a career path and as an end in itself.
So I'd love to visit your school and play a part in getting your kids hyped about reading and writing.
(Bear in mind that live visits may additionally be charged travel expenses - I live in Middlesbrough and charge petrol at 55p a mile, or train tickets at cost)
Also - I am fully DBS-checked so you don't even need to accompany me to the staff room.
"You inspired a new generation of authors on Tuesday, James. Thank you."
- Levendale Primary School
Below is what I offer:
(Of course, I'm negotiable on the details so do please ask if there's anything specifically you'd like me to cover. I am very good on creating characters, and easy story structure if you'd like a more in-depth workshop.)
To book a visit or more information please contact me
Full Day Visit
£375 (plus travel expenses)
I’ll do a 45 minute assembly about reading and writing, and why they are both mint, with a Powerpoint presentation packed with pictures of me and my sister as children in the 1970's, with moustaches drawn on us.
Then I’ll do up to four classroom workshops featuring Everyday Monsters, a collaborative session exploring the link between drawing and creative writing, done via the medium of MONSTERS. The workshop is designed so that even kids who habitually believe they "can't think of anything" will be fully engaged, and will produce at least one brand-new character. It will generally last 45 - 60 mins, with the last 15 minutes devoted to a Q&A if you'd like.
Then I’ll do a book signing, if you'd like.
Half Day Visit
£250 (plus travel expenses)
The same as a full day visit but shorter, with an assembly and 2 workshops, then a signing.
To book a visit or more information please contact me