Literary Week kicked off with a talk by author (and teacher at Francis Holland Sloane Square!) Emma Shevah who not only shared her favourite words with us and encouraged pupils to think about five of their own favourite words, but she talked pupils through her career as an author, writing books for younger audiences but featuring intellectually advanced topics such as discovering identity and navigating teenage friendships.
Our Library was transformed into a Daunt Books pop up fair with a huge array of books on offer for our pupils to choose from, purchase and take home with them to enjoy.
We then welcomed Jemma Wolff, accomplished unscripted television producer and researcher who has worked on well known, household favourites such as RuPaul’s Drag Race, to talk all about how a degree in English Literature at Birmingham University got her to where she is today. From a dissertation comparing Disney and Shakespeare, to being a covid supervisor on a film set, Jemma’s experience was fantastic for our budding media enthusiasts to hear.
Of course, it wouldn’t be Literary Week without our Inter House Spelling Bee which which is always a fun, engaging way to earn house points and challenge literary prowess. Congratulations to Mars for a hard fought victory!
Finally, the week came to a close with an engaging debating workshop for pupils in Years 7–9, led by Julian Bell from Debating for Everyone. The session introduced pupils to the core skills of effective debating, including how to structure persuasive arguments, work collaboratively as a team, deliver clear and confident speeches, and respond thoughtfully to opposing viewpoints through rebuttal. Pupils also explored how to plan their ideas carefully and communicate them with clarity and conviction – key elements of strong debate and public speaking. Opportunities like this are a regular feature of life at Francis Holland Regent’s Park, reflecting the school’s commitment to nurturing pupil voice and developing confident, articulate communicators.
Literary Week at Francis Holland Regent’s Park is always packed full of fantastic events and opportunities and we are already looking forward to how this year’s activities have inspired our girls!
