By Anna Welch
Primary Teacher
World Book Week is here, and at NISC and we've been diving headfirst into the enchanting world of stories! This year, our theme is "Reading is Magic," and it's been a week filled with wonder, imagination, and the sheer joy of books.
A Global Celebration of Stories
World Book Week isn't just a local event; it's a global celebration of the power of reading. From bustling libraries in London to quiet classrooms in rural villages, people around the world are coming together to share their love of books. In some countries, children dress up as their favorite characters, while in others, authors visit schools to inspire young readers. Book fairs, storytelling sessions, and literary workshops are just a few of the ways this special week is celebrated.
Here at NISC, we've embraced the magic of reading with open arms. We've explored fantastical worlds through countless books and poems, discovering hidden treasures and meeting unforgettable characters. Our classrooms have been transformed into magical realms, with activities that have sparked creativity and ignited imaginations. From crafting enchanted wands to writing our own magical spells, we've truly experienced the magic that reading can bring.
"Reading is Magic": Our Enchanted Week
Our "Reading is Magic" theme has allowed us to explore the boundless possibilities that lie within the pages of a book. We've delved into tales of wizards and witches, brave knights, and clever fairies, and learned that magic isn't just about spells and potions; it's about the power of imagination, empathy, and knowledge.
Magical Book Explorations: We've read stories that have transported us to far-off lands, introduced us to talking animals, and showed us the beauty of friendship and courage.
Poetry Potions: We've stirred up our own poetic brews, crafting verses that shimmer with magic and rhythm.
Enchanted Activities: From creating our own magical creatures to designing enchanted maps, we've engaged in hands-on activities that have brought our imaginations to life.
Meet the Author: David Bedford!
David Bedford is a renowned children's author whose stories have charmed readers of all ages. His books are filled with warmth, humor, and a touch of magic. We're incredibly excited to hear him read from his works and share his insights into the world of writing. This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to connect with a real author and learn more about the creative process.
The Magic Continues...
World Book Week may be coming to an end, but the magic of reading never fades. We hope that this week has sparked a lifelong love of books in our students and that they continue to explore the endless worlds that await them within the pages of a good story.
Let's keep the magic alive!
Action Learning Camps, or ALCs, are often cherished highlights of students' school years. Memories of playing team sports, roasting marshmallows, and sharing whispered conversations into the early hours of the morning leave lasting impressions. But ALCs are more than just fun—they're foundational experiences that support students’ growth in a number of ways.
We often associate gratitude with iconic moments, such as when our children are born healthy, we are offered a good job, a family member or pet survives an illness or operation, or when our children graduate from school. Events like these can be very moving and emotional, and sometimes even life changing. However, what if we made it a habit to include gratitude in our daily lives?
Lots of research points to a very common problem in student learning: Too much information!
Students can become overwhelmed and consequently processing and memory retention can become difficult. Not just for students with executive function challenges, or neurodiversity; for many neurotypical students too! Especially younger students. Feeling overwhelmed can also trigger stress and anxiety.
Reading is an essential skill for success in school and in life. It is also a skill that can be developed and nurtured at home, from an early age. You as parents and caregivers play a vital role in helping your child develop a love of reading.
