River Wolton

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Writing in Education

River has been a Writer in Education for nine years, working in primary and secondary schools as well as colleges and universities. Some projects are designed around curriculum subjects, and others involve working 'on location' in museums, galleries and botanical gardens.

‘River made the children feel like they were writers.’
- Teacher, 2009

‘I liked River's relaxed technique and the magical way she got ideas out of the group. I was particularly pleased with the way the boys got involved. They could see that the writing had a purpose - they are reluctant to write poetry at school because they can't see what it's for. The workshop made them use their eyes and get physically involved with the landscape. I've learned so much about using nature as a stimulus for writing poetry, and gained lots of ideas and confidence to get the children writing.’
- Year 4 teacher, St Edward's Catholic Primary School, Swadlincote, July 2009
(Writing workshop at Rosliston Forestry Centre, part of the National Forest)

‘River Wolton worked with my mixed ability Year 5 class for six half-days. Her planning was excellent, with clear progression, and her teaching style was ideal for these children. She was warm, friendly and caring, viewing all of their ideas as important and working with all of them, regardless of their ability or language skills. As a result the children were enthusiastic and persistent and applied themselves with great effort. They looked forward to the sessions, and attitudes towards writing improved tremendously. They displayed their work with pride and took great delight in performing it for the rest of the school.’
- Year 5 teacher, Pye Bank CE Primary School, Sheffield

‘I learnt new words, how to make my poems better and how to edit my poems.’
- Year 8 student, Buxton Community School, February 2008

In 2006 and 2007 she was a workshop leader with BBC Blast - touring creative workshops for young people.

‘River has worked with BBC Blast on tour for two years and has inspired many young people to produce some fantastic creative writing. She is a great workshop leader, often working with young people who are difficult to engage, and achieved some great results.’
- Helen Bailey, BBC Blast, Event Organiser