The visit began with a special assembly to launch this year’s Magpie Poetry Competition, an event the children had been eagerly awaiting.

Rachel captivated the hall with a selection of her favourite poems, including her much‑loved Fast poem, which she impressively performed in under 25 seconds. Her lively delivery and warm humour set the tone for an exciting day ahead.

Workshops That Sparked Imagination

Following the assembly, each year group enjoyed a workshop with Rachel. In the Year 6 session, pupils began by listening to King of the Moles by Gwenno Gwilym. The class explored the poem’s themes and language, discussing how it encourages readers to think about the hidden worlds beneath our feet.

Inspired by this, Year 6 then chose the subject for their own Magpie poem. After much debate, the class selected the mysterious jellyfish as their “animal ruler”, with the sea cucumber coming a close second. Working together, they shared ideas for the opening stanza, which Rachel shaped into the first verse of their poem.

Pupils then split into smaller groups to write additional stanzas independently. These were later brought together by Mrs Dye to create their final collaborative poem.

A Day to Remember

The visit offered pupils a rare opportunity to work closely with a published poet, gaining insight into the creative process and discovering new ways to play with language. As Hermione (Year 6) reflected in her write‑up, the experience was both inspiring and thoroughly enjoyable.

We look forward to sharing the finished poem soon—and to seeing the wonderful entries that emerge from this year’s Magpie Poetry Competition.