Literature for Schools 2025 by Cheltenham Festivals

Produced

This year’s free offer is bigger than ever, with KS5 career sessions and Alice in Wonderland inspired activities for all

We’re excited to partner with Guest Curator Jamie Smart on a fantastic line-up of comic events to spark

Celebrating

Return to Wonderland

Step into the world of Alice with a Why by Anna James and embark on a magical adventure through Wonderland to meet the Mad Hatter.

160 years of Alice in Wonderland

Tales of Wonder

Join storyteller Isy Mead for tales of wonder, riddles and role play, including well-loved characters from Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Spaces are limited, to register your interest see p30

Walk-about performances

Curious Creatures

Look out for our giant blackboard and add your curious creature to the imaginative menagerie.

Look out for your favourite book characters parading around the Festival Village including the White Rabbit.

Shadow Play

Create, cut, and play!

Make your own Alice in Wonderland shadow puppets, then bring them to life behind the screen in this magical craft zone.

The Phoenix Comic Corner

Grab a pencil, draw your comic-style self and help build our brilliant, creative, comic, community wall.

Tales from Acorn Wood Trail

Celebrate 25 years of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s Acorn Wood

Spot your favourite characters, lift the flaps and find hidden objects.

Discover free fun in The Wild Wood before or after your event, 9.30am – 2.30pm

Escape Room

Game Zero Trail

Are you ready to play the ultimate game?

Unlock the levels, find the scattered keys and save the world before it’s too late... Christopher Edge’s The Escape awaits... Can you complete the trail in time?

Sensory Nook

A sensory space to explore natural objects and snuggle up with books.

Imagination

Station

Costumes, mirrors and props. Perfect for playful roleplay and creative fun.

Waterstones Bookshops

Bring your pupils to our Waterstones Festival bookshops where they can browse the shelves, get personal recommendations from our expert booksellers, meet authors after their events, have books signed and capture memorable photos for your school website.

With thanks to our supporters

Reception and KS1

Years 1–2

Rob Biddulph: When I Grow Up

The Times and Sunday Times Forum

£7.50 per pupil. R and Years 1–2

Dream big with author-illustrator Rob Biddulph, creator of #DrawWithRob as he brings his award-winning books to life, including When I Grow Up, I’d Like to Be Explore the world of jobs, learn to draw one of his amazing illustrations and leave inspired with endless possibilities.

10.15 – 11.05am

£12.99

Robert Tregoning: The Rock Family Band

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. R and Year 1

Enjoy a lively storytelling, take part in a hands-on activity and get behind-thescenes insights into writing and making books with author and performer Robert Tregoning. With themes of individuality and acceptance, this joyful session is perfect for young readers.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 11.45am – 12.35pm LS03

£7.99

Ivy and Bearlock Holmes

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Years 1–2

Unleash your inner sleuth and get your paws into solving puzzles and clues with author-illustrator Kristyna Litten. Step into the town of Bearona and meet the quirky characters of the mystery fiction series Ivy and Bearlock Holmes. Then, together with Kristyna, create a brandnew character.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 11.45am – 12.35pm LS14

£9.99

Selina Brown: My Rice is Best

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. R and Year 1

Celebrate culture, heritage and the stories that connect us in this interactive storytelling session with Selina Brown, author of My Rice is Best. Step into Shane’s world with lively readings, games and chances to share food memories as he and his friends debate which rice dish reigns supreme.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 11.45am – 12.35pm LS50

£7.99

Wednesday 15 October Thursday 16 October Tuesday 14 October

Eric Huang: Guardians of the New Moon

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Year 2

Enter the magical world of Guardians of the New Moon with author Eric Huang. Meet your lunar zodiac animal through fun drawing and writing activities. Inspired by East Asian mythology, this action-packed series is filled with adventure, humour and friendship, showing the power of teamwork and imagination.

SESSION

1.30 – 2.30pm

Tracey Corderoy and Steven Lenton: Shifty McGifty

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Years 1–2

Baker dogs Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam have moved on from being robbers – now, they solve mysteries and sniff out crimes. Join creators Tracey Corderoy and Steven Lenton for a fantastic event with interactive storytelling, live illustration and PAW-some drawing and games.

Gary Panton: The Notwitches

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Year 2

When Melanda is visited by a witch named Mitch and her sort-of-talking cat, things start to look up. Can she escape from her monstrous aunts who treat her like a servant? Create your own characters and send them on their own thrilling journeys with author Gary Panton in an event filled with laughs, spooky surprises and madcap adventures.

TIMES

Meet the Author

Come to the Waterstones Bookshop after each event to meet the author and have your books signed

David O’Connell: Beastie Bros

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Years 1–2

Follow the story of how Beastie Bros books are made from the first idea to the finished copy with author and illustrator David O’Connell . Once you have learned how the adventures of Dribble the snail and Dash the firefly come to life, help David to create a brand new story, live on stage.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 11.45am – 12.45pm LS26 £6.99

Creating Characters with Adam Stower

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Year 2

Join author and illustrator Adam Stower for a fun, hands-on workshop all about creating characters. Discover how Adam dreamt up Murray and Bun, join in the drawing demos and follow the steps to create your own unique characters. Packed with tips and tricks, this workshop will help young imaginations bring their own characters to life.

Rachel Bright and Jim Field:

The Lion Inside

The Times and Sunday Times Forum

£7.50 per pupil. R and Year 1

Discover how a shy little mouse finds his roar in a heartwarming tale about confidence and self-esteem with Rachel Bright and Jim Field. Rachel will share ideas for creating memorable characters and rhyming stories, while Jim will be live drawing and leading a draw-along.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10.15 – 11.05am LS02

£7.99

Michael Rosen: Stories and Poems

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. R and Years 1–2

Michael Rosen is one of the nation’s bestloved children’s writers and performers whose contemporary classics such as We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and Jelly Boots, Smelly Boots have delighted children for generations. Join the former Children’s Laureate to celebrate his newest picture books Oh Dear, Look What I Got!, Snow White and the Seven Bears and Out of this World poems with a generous dollop of humour.

Reading Teachers = Reading Pupils

We’re on a mission to inspire the next generation of readers.

If you’re a KS2 or KS3 teacher and are looking to:

• Boost reading for pleasure in your school

• Be part of a reading community

• Increase access to high quality books

• Take part in author webinars

Join us for the launch of this year’s RTRP programme and learn about the pedagogy behind the project on Tuesday 14 October.

Find out how to get involved by visiting cheltenhamfestivals.org/rtrp

Or contact education@cheltenhamfestivals.org

With thanks to our supporters

Key Stage 2 Years 3–6

Anna James: Return to Wonderland

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 4–5

Discover the stories you can create by reimagining the ones you already love with bestselling author Anna James as she returns to Wonderland with Alice with a Why. Meet the Mad Hatter, the Cheshire Cat and some exciting new faces in this interactive session.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS21

£12.99

Alastair Chisholm: I Am Wolf

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Delve into I Am Raven, the thrilling sequel to the Carnegie Medal-longlisted I Am Wolf with author Alastair Chisholm.

Explore what makes great science fiction as Alastair tackles universal issues through a sci-fi lens in this pulse-raising event.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS16

£7.99

Create a Character with Sarah Bowie

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 3–4

Design your own cartoon character with writer and illustrator Sarah Bowie, creator of Nina Peanut, superstar in the making, frozen pizza chef, creative genius and owner of the world’s stinkiest cat.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS43

£8.99

Make Your Own Mystery with Sharna Jackson

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 4–6

Make your own mystery with author Sharna Jackson. In this fun and fastpaced session, delve into the three Ps – people, plot and place. Together with your classmates you’ll choose a setting, develop detectives, select suspicious suspects and call out the culprit, tying it all together with a tantalising title.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 11.45am – 12.45pm LS44

£7.99

Meet the Author

Come to the Waterstones Bookshop after each event to meet the author and have your books signed

Friday 10 October Monday 13 October

Reimagining Stories with Anna James

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Year 6

Go on a creative writing adventure with Anna James and bring your own exciting ideas to your favourite stories. Imagine if Wonderland had a new visitor or Neverland had a different villain. Through fun and activities, conversation and games, you’ll create your own imaginative twist on a familiar tale.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE

1.30 – 2.30pm LS41

£12.99

Peter Brown: The Wild Robot

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 3–4

Meet bestselling U.S. author and illustrator of The Wild Robot series, Peter Brown and discover the touching story of a robot who forms unlikely friendships and learns to thrive in the wilderness. Enjoy a live draw-along, behind-the-scenes insights into the DreamWorks adaptation and quiz Peter about his books.

Ross Montgomery: I Am Rebel

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Comic Making with Vivian Truong

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 4–6

The joy that children get from visiting the site and listening to an author is always inspirational.

Teacher

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 1.30 – 2.30pm LS29

£7.99

Follow brave young dog Rebel through the pages of I Am Rebel on his quest to save his human from war with author Ross Montgomery. Discover ways to bring your pets to life on the page, whether as wise cats, chatty dogs, or heroic hamsters as Ross shows you how he creates unforgettable animal characters.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS15

£7.99

Join City of Dragons co-creator Vivian Truong for a lively comic workshop packed with creativity and inspiration. Explore different styles of short comics, learn how to draft a story step-by-step and then create your own mini comic. Whether you’re just starting out or already love drawing, this session will spark your imagination and bring your stories to life!

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS46

£9.99

Cressida Cowell: Dragon School

The Times and Sunday Times Forum

£7.50 per pupil. Years 3–4

Go back to school – dragon school – with How to Train Your Dragon School author and illustrator Cressida Cowell. Start the session off with Hiccup Horrendous Haddock the Third, his dragons and their new hilarious adventures before flying into some top writing and drawing tips with Cressida. Perfect for developing readers and aspiring young storytellers.

SESSION TIMES

10.15 – 11.15am LS04

£7.99

J. P. Rose: Birdie

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Join award-winning author J.P. Rose for an interactive event about identity and belonging. Discover Birdie, the powerful story of a mixed-race girl in 1950s Yorkshire who finds courage and friendship with the village’s last pit pony. Together, create a character to befriend Birdie and celebrate how our differences make us unique.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 12 – 1pm LS08

£7.99

Pari Thomson: Greenwild

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 4–6

Step into the spellbinding world of Greenwild with Waterstones Children’s Book Prize winner Pari Thomson and discover how she brings this magical adventure trilogy to life. Enjoy captivating readings and take part in a fun, creative activity that will inspire you to find the magic in nature.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS09

£7.99

Comic Workshop with Neill Cameron

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 3–4

Calling all budding comic artists! Sharpen your pencils and get ready to create your very own characters and comics with Neill Cameron, cartoonist for The Phoenix comic and creator of Donut Squad and Mega Robo Bros

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS37

£9.99

out more about our Future of Reading Conference on p29

Frank Cottrell-Boyce: The Blockbusters!

The Times and Sunday Times Forum

£7.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Step into the spotlight for a fun-filled Hollywood adventure with Waterstones Children’s Laureate Frank Cottrell-Boyce and illustrator Steven Lenton. Inspired by their new book The Blockbusters!, where a Year 6 class stumble onto a movie set, this event is bursting with humour, heart and thrilling action. Expect live storytelling and dynamic illustrations to ignite young imaginations.

Poetry Workshop with Sarah Ziman

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Celebrate someone special with poet Sarah Ziman. Compare Sarah’s Love/Hate with You by Joshua Seigal, exploring metaphors and their differences. Using inspiration cards, create your own comparisons and enhance your poem with vivid language. A collaborative workshop to craft a new, creative poem together.

Neill Cameron: Mega Robo Bros

Attivo Garden Theatre

£8.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Generate awesome story ideas and turn them into a comic with writer and illustrator Neill Cameron, creator of the Mega Robo Bros and Donut Squad graphic novel series and regular contributor to The Phoenix comic.

Free Storytelling Sessions

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 12 – 1pm

Eric Huang: Guardians of the New Moon

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Year 3

Step into the magical world of Guardians of the New Moon with author Eric Huang. Meet your lunar zodiac animal through fun drawing and writing activities. Inspired by East Asian mythology, this action-packed series is filled with adventure, humour and friendship, showing the power of teamwork and imagination.

SESSION TIMES

CODE 1.30 – 2.30pm LS49

£6.99

Kieran Larwood and Joe Todd Stanton: Dungeon Runners

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 3–4

Put your skills to the test with author Kieran Larwood and illustrator Joe Todd-Stanton in this thrilling Dungeon Runners gaming event. Solve puzzles, tackle mazes and create characters in an interactive version of the game. With riddles, challenges and plenty of audience participation, do you have what it takes to defeat the dungeon boss?

Hero or Villian?

Writing Workshop with Ash Bond

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 3–6

Join author Ash Bond for a hands-on creative writing workshop and design your own hero or villain. Drawing on the myths, literature and ancient history that inspired her electrifying new series Peregrine Quinn, Ash guides you through the process of building unforgettable characters.

Jacqueline Wilson

The Times and Sunday Times Forum

£7.50 per pupil. Years 4–6

Jacqueline Wilson wrote her first book at nine and since then she’s created over 100 unforgettable stories and characters. Follow her as she takes you through her writing journey all the way to her latest book The Seaside Sleepover and her collaboration with illustrator Rachael Dean who will draw live on stage. Bring your questions and join the fun. Chaired by Bex Lindsay from Fun Kids Radio.

Book Talk LIVE with Camilla Chester and Gabrielle Shewohorak

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Years 3–4

Take part in a lively, interactive book club-style event with authors Camilla Chester Call Me Lion and Gabrielle Shewoharak Rani Reports: On the Missing Millions. Hear about their stories, share your own creative responses and dive into a big question session with the authors. A brilliant chance for young readers to connect with books... and the people who write them.

Please note: pupils must be familiar with at least one of the books before attending. Our team will contact you after booking to arrange participation.

Christopher Edge:

Escape Room Game Zero

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Help author Christopher Edge uncover the secrets of The Escape, where anything is possible and nothing is as it seems. This is no ordinary game – beat epic puzzles, peril and challenges before the time runs out. Do you dare play?

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 12 – 1pm LS18

£7.99

Comic Workshop with David O’Connell

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 3–4

Escape Room Game

Zero Trail

Unlock the levels, find the scattered keys and save the world before it’s too late... see p2 for more info

Learn how to make stories using comics in this bug-themed workshop with comic artist David O’Connell . Covering character creation and story-planning, find out how a short comic can be the springboard to an epic story.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 1.30 – 2.30pm LS28

£6.99

Kiran Millwood Hargrave: Geomancer

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

From author Kiran Millwood Hargrave comes an epic fantasy series about nature’s magic, the lure of power and the strength of love. Journey through Celtic rainforests, talking roots, Arctic foxes and ancient Greenland sharks, discovering the real world behind her Geomancer series. Leave inspired by nature and ready to create your own stories.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS13

£7.99

Gary Panton: The Notwitches

The Hive

£7.50 per pupil. Year 3

When Melanda is visited by a witch named Mitch and her sort-of-talking cat, things start to look up. Can she escape from her monstrous aunts who treat her like a servant? Create your own characters and send them on their own thrilling journeys with author Gary Panton for an event filled with laughs, spooky surprises and madcap adventures.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS51

£7.99

Make Your Own Mystery with Sharna Jackson

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 4–6

Make your own mystery with author Sharna Jackson. In this fun and fastpaced session, get into the three Ps –people, plot and place. Together with your classmates you’ll choose a setting, develop detectives, select suspicious suspects and call out the culprit, tying it all together with a tantalising title.

Maz Evans: The Last Bard

The Times and Sunday Times Forum

£7.50 per pupil. Years 4–5

Jennifer Killick: Serial Chillers

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Tell Your Story with Maz Evans

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Years 5–6

Use the handy primary school day planner on p16

Unlock your creativity with superstar author Maz Evans. Inspired by her new book The Last Bard, Maz brings Shakespeare to life through his greatest hits and their modern equivalents, from The Lion King to West Side Story. Packed with laughter, games and storytelling, this high-energy session is guaranteed to inspire a love of words and drama. SESSION

£12.99

Experience chills, spills and plenty of laughs with bestselling author Jennifer Killick . Dive into her thrilling new book and the inspiration behind her comedy thriller stories with quizzes, games and creative insights.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 12 – 1pm LS20

£7.99

In this inspiring workshop for young writers, join superstar author Maz Evans and dive into Shakespeare’s wacky world to learn how to tell your story in five easy acts.

SESSION TIMES

1.30 – 2.30pm LS55

£12.99

Creating Characters with Adam Stower

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per pupil. Year 3

James Turner: Toby and the Pixies

The Hive £7.50 per pupil. Years 3–4

In Toby and the Pixies, shy and anxious schoolboy Toby accidentally becomes king of a pixie kingdom at the bottom of his garden. Join author and illustrator James Turner to discover the secrets of making comics, from character design to speech bubbles, and have loads of fun along the way. You’ll even create your own pixies and make a mini comic starring them.

Maximise Your Day

Discover free activities in The Wild Wood before or after your event.

The Den

Step inside for comic making, sensory exploration, imaginative play, shadow puppets and our two terrific adventure trails.

Return to Wonderland

Embark on a magical adventure through Wonderland, where a curious encounter with the Mad Hatter awaits.

Story Shack

Join us for Tales of Wonder with Isy Mead. For information on how to book a free storytelling session see p30

Meet the Author

Come to the Waterstones

Bookshop after each event to meet the author and have your books signed.

See page 2 for full details on all our free activities

Primary School Day Planner

Gary

Kieran Larwood and Joe Todd Stanton: Dungeon Runners

Christopher Edge: Escape Room Game Zero

Comic Workshop with David O’Connell

Creating Characters with Adam Stower

Pari Thomson: Greenwild Poetry Workshop with Sarah Ziman

Selina Brown: My Rice is Best

Eric Huang: Guardians of the New Moon

Maz Evans: The Last Bard

Comic Workshop with Neill Cameron

Neill Cameron: Mega Robo Bros

Frank Cottrell-Boyce: The Blockbusters!

Hero or Villian? Writing Workshop with Ash Bond

Tracey Corderoy and Steven Lenton: Shifty McGifty

Hero or Villian? Writing Workshop with Ash Bond

Book Talk LIVE with Camilla Chester and Gabrielle Shewohorak Jacqueline Wilson

Make Your Own Mystery with Sharna Jackson

Panton: The Notwitches

Gary Panton: The Notwitches

Kiran Millwood Hargrave: Geomancer

Tell Your Story with Maz Evans

Make Your Own Mystery with Sharna Jackson

James Turner: Toby and the Pixies

Rachel Bright and Jim Field: The Lion Inside

Jennifer Killick: Serial Chillers

Michael Rosen: Stories and Poems

David O’Connell: Beastie Bros

Anna James: Return to Wonderland

Ross Montgomery: I Am Rebel

Cressida Cowell: Dragon School

Comic Making with Vivian Truong

J. P. Rose: Birdie

Make Your Own Mystery with Sharna Jackson

Reimagining Stories with Anna James

Peter Brown: The Wild Robot

Alastair Chisholm: I Am Wolf

Create a Character with Sarah Bowie

Rob Biddulph: When I Grow Up...

Robert Tregoning: The Rock Family Band

Kristyna Litten: Ivy and Bearlock Holmes

Key Stage 3 Years 7–9

13 October

Alastair Chisholm:

I Am Wolf

The Hive

£7.50 per student. Year 7

Delve into I Am Raven, the thrilling sequel to the Carnegie Medal-longlisted I Am Wolf with author Alastair Chisholm Explore what makes great science fiction as Alastair tackles universal issues through a sci-fi lens in this pulse-raising event.

10 – 11am LS16

£7.99

Jonathan Stroud:

The Legendary Scarlett and Browne

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per student. Years 7–9

Explore the fantastical worlds of bestselling author Jonathan Stroud From the modern wild west of Scarlett and Browne to the spooky adventures of Lockwood & Co. Jonathan will chat about his inspiration, love of writing and what it’s like to have a book turned into a Netflix series. A fantastic insight into the world-building process of a writer from one of the most popular UK fantasy authors around today.

Meet the Author

Come to the Waterstones Bookshop after each event to meet the author and have your books signed

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 11.45am – 12.45pm LS10

£8.99

Reimagining Stories with Anna James

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per student. Year 7

Go on a creative writing adventure with Anna James and bring your own exciting ideas to your favourite stories. Imagine if Wonderland had a new visitor or Neverland had a different villain. Through fun and activities, conversation and games, create your own imaginative twist on a familiar tale.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 1.30 – 2.30pm LS41

£12.99

Ross Montgomery: I Am Rebel

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per student. Year 7

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS15

£7.99

Nathanael Lessore: What Happens Online

The Hive

£7.50 per student. Years 8–9

Award-winning author Nathanael Lessore leads a lively session on comedy writing, creativity and turning real life into stories. Explore themes like peer pressure, online culture and mental health through his books Steady for This, King of Nothing and What Happens Online and leave with tips on how to structure stories and turn your own experiences into compelling stories. Hosted by Amy McKay

SESSION TIMES

10 – 11am

£8.99

Deborah Meaden Talks Money

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per student. Years 7–9

Money is a big part of our lives, and learning how to manage it is essential.

Join entrepreneur, author and Dragon’s Den dragon Deborah Meaden to be introduced to the world of finance.

With quizzes, practical tasks and advice, Deborah breaks down finance in a way that’s both easy to understand and empowering.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 11.45am – 12.45pm LS48

£9.99

J. P. Rose: Birdie

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per student. Year 7

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 12 – 1pm LS08

£7.99

Comic Making with Vivian Truong

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per student. Year 7

Explore different styles of short comics, learn how to draft a story step-by-step and then create your own mini comic

Comic Making with Vivian Truong

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 1.30 – 2.30pm LS47

£9.99

Sylvia Bishop: On Silver Tides

The Hive

£7.50 per student. Years 7–9

Explore the art of world-building with fantasy author Sylvia Bishop Inspired by Britain’s ancient waterways, On Silver Tides is rich with folklore and adventure. Sylvia will share her key tools for bringing settings to life to sharpen your storytelling skills before crafting a collaborative fantasy world through interactive prompts.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS11

£8.99

Cook Up a Poem with Sarah Ziman

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per student. Years 7–9

Join poet Sarah Ziman to explore her poem Recipe for a Wasp, examining the ingredients, equipment and playful language used. Then, pick your own creature to craft quirky instructions for and work together to create a fresh, imaginative poem full of humour.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 11.45am – 12.45pm LS39

£8.99

Christopher Edge: Escape Room Game Zero

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per student. Year 7

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 12 – 1pm LS18

£7.99

Jennifer Killick: Serial Chillers

Attivo Garden Theatre

£7.50 per student. Year 7

Experience chills, spills and plenty of laughs with bestselling author Jennifer Killick. Dive into her thrilling new book and the inspiration behind her comedy thriller stories with quizzes, games and creative insights.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 12 – 1pm LS20

£7.99

The Scribbled Self

A guide to writing for wellbeing for young people

Curated by previous participants of our Beyond Words project, which put a writer-in-residence in the Gloucestershire Hospital Education Service

Watch out for Scribbled Self events taking place in VOICEBOX during the Festival. Learn more at cheltenhamfestivals.org/the-scribbled-self

@CHELTFESTIVALS

@VOICEBOX___

Key Stage 3 Day Planner

Alastair Chisholm: I Am Wolf

Reimagining Stories with Anna James

Jonathan Stroud: The Legendary Scarlett and Browne

Ross Montgomery: I Am Rebel

Deborah Meaden Talks Money

Comic Making with Vivian Truong

J. P. Rose: Birdie

Christopher Edge: Escape Room Game Zero

Jennifer Killick: Serial Chillers

Nathanael Lessore: What Happens Online

Sylvia Bishop: On Silver Tides

Cook Up a Poem with Sarah Ziman

Key Stage 4 Years 10–11

Dystopia Explored

The Hive

£7.50 per student. Years 10–11

Push the boundaries of storytelling with authors Moira Buffini and Polly Crosby in conversation with writer and content creator Andy Darcy Theo. Discover how dystopian futures can explore inner fears, challenge assumptions and reflect real-world issues, as they discuss world-building, their writing journeys, creative process and what they hope readers take from their work. SESSION

Introduction to Manga with Sonia Leong

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel

£8.50 per student. Years 10–11

Join award-winning comic artist Sonia Leong to create your own original Manga-style characters. Learn how to draw shiny eyes, stylish hair and dynamic poses using simple shapes and techniques. Sonia will also introduce the basics of storyboarding, with handouts for follow-up activities.

11.45am – 12.45pm LS23

£16.99

Dean Atta: Crafting Poetry and Story

The Hive

£7.50 per student. Years 10–11

Explore the craft of verse novels in this hands-on masterclass with writer and performer Dean Atta. Through writing exercises and discussions, learn how to mix storytelling with poetry using rhythm, imagery and voice to craft powerful narratives. Perfect for anyone looking to develop their own unique style and bring their creative ideas to life.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 1.30 – 2.30pm LS22

£9.99

Meet the Author

Come to the Waterstones Bookshop after each event to meet the author and have your books signed

VOICEBOX explores big ideas, amplifies young voices and creates change.

For short talks, workshops, music and more, drop in to VOICEBOX.

Let your students know about this dynamic FREE space for young people aged 15+ and look out for the Zine in September.

@CHELTFESTIVALS

@VOICEBOX___

Learn how to mix storytelling with poetry using rhythm, imagery and voice to craft powerful narratives

Dean Atta: Crafting Poetry and Story

Complete Your Booking Here

Booking opens at 4pm on Tuesday 17 June

Key Stage 5 Years

12–13

Unlocking Your Poetic Voice with Raymond Antrobus

VOICEBOX

£7.50 per student. Years 12–13

Find your poetic voice with Ted Hughes Award-winning poet Raymond Antrobus Through interactive exercises, explore language, rhythm and storytelling while gaining insights into his craft. Experiment with form, voice and perspective to develop your unique style, refine your work and unlock new creative possibilities.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 10 – 11am LS24

£16.99

The Scribbled Self

The Snug FREE Years 12–13

Choose from a selection of activities designed to explore writing for wellbeing. Whether it’s journalling, storytelling or scribbling thoughts, this is your space to write, your way.

SESSION TIMES

11.15am – 1.15pm DROP IN

Badge Cafe

The Snug FREE Years 12–13

Fancy a crafty utopian hangout? Badge Cafe offers space to relax, create and connect by making unique badges out of old books and magazines.

SESSION TIMES

11.15am – 1.15pm DROP IN

Working in Publishing

The Huddle FREE Years 12–13

Love books? Ever wondered what it’s like to make them? From editing bestsellers to designing eye catching covers and marketing the next big thing, publishing is full of exciting jobs. Meet three industry insiders who’ll share their journeys and reveal what it’s really like behind the scenes.

SESSION TIMES

11.30am – 12.15pm DROP IN

Working as a Writer

The Huddle FREE Years 12–13

Whether it’s novels, scripts, poetry or journalism, writing can be an exciting and creative path. Meet writers who share their journeys; the highs, the struggles and what it takes to make a living from words. Bring your questions and be inspired to start your own writing journey.

SESSION TIMES

12.30 – 1.15pm DROP IN

Meet the Author

Come to the Waterstones Bookshop after each event to meet the author and have your books signed

Oyinkan Braithwaite, Author, Screenwriter, Illustrator

VOICEBOX

£7.50 per student. Years 12–13

Meet Oyinkan Braithwaite, acclaimed author of the darkly comic thriller

My Sister, the Serial Killer in an inspiring, intimate conversation with author and publishing expert Abigail Bergstrom

Gain insight into her writing journey, from developing a bestselling novel to screenwriting for TV and film. Explore her creative process, career pathways in storytelling, and hear about her role as a Festival guest curator.

SESSION TIMES BOOKING CODE 1.30 – 2.30pm LS25

£9.99

VOICEBOX amplifies young voices, turns up the volume on big issues and creates change. Exploring everything from new writing and pop culture to politics, wellbeing and society, drop in to free events in the VOICEBOX space throughout the Festival.

With short talks, chats and debates, workshops, music and spoken word, VOICEBOX is home to unmissable experiences and one-off moments.

With rising stars and household names, we’re creating bold content alongside young people in our community and beyond.

Let your students know about this dynamic FREE space for young people aged 15+ so they can be part of the conversation as we create change from the ground up and explore the issues you care about.

The line-up will be live at cheltenhamfestivals.org/VOICEBOX from September, or pick up the VOICEBOX Zine in print.

cheltenhamfestivals.org/VOICEBOX

The Future of Reading Conference

Monday 13 October 9.30am – 4.45pm Cheltenham Racecourse

The world is changing: children are accessing stories in new and innovative ways. We need to adapt to meet them where they are, while continuing to promote the joy that reading can bring. Join us for a conference that will empower and equip you to create a culture of reading for pleasure that is fit for the future.

£90 Ticket includes the full day’s programme, two workshops of your choice, lunch and refreshments

For more information, go to p29

Complete Your Booking Here

Booking opens at 4pm on Tuesday 17 June

SEND Providers

Shifty McGifty and Slippery Sam: Sensory Storytelling

Story Shack

£5 per pupil

Your Booking Here Booking opens at 4pm on Tuesday 17 June

We’re committed to providing the best service possible for schools and pupils with access requirements including:

✓ Access to our Learning and Participation team for support before and during your visit

✓ Wheelchair accessible venues on site including Cheltenham Town Hall

✓ SEND specific events for special educational needs

The Future of Reading Conference

Monday 13 October

9.30am – 4.45pm Cheltenham Racecourse

The world is changing: children are accessing stories in new and innovative ways. We need to adapt to meet them where they are, while continuing to promote the joy that reading can bring.

Join us for a conference that will empower and equip you to create a culture of reading for pleasure that is fit for the future.

Frank Cottrell-Boyce

Sharna Jackson

Featuring... ...and many more

Bobby Joseph

£90 Ticket includes the full day’s programme, two workshops of your choice, lunch and refreshments

Complete Your Booking Here

Booking opens at 4pm on Tuesday 17 June

How to Book

Booking opens at 4pm on Tuesday 17 June

From 4pm you can access the booking forms where you can select your preferred choices.

Prices

Events: £7.50 per pupil

Workshops: £8.50 per pupil

SEND event: £5.00 per pupil

Tickets for teachers and accompanying adults are free of charge according to the ratio of staff: pupil for your key stage.

Free Storytelling Session:

Available when booking an event or workshop. Spaces are limited. Please register your interest on the booking form and we will be in touch if we can accommodate you.

A £5 booking fee for Schools and £3 for Home Educators will be added to the total cost of your order.

Please complete your booking using the forms link below:

and KS1

Home Educators

Announced on Wednesday 13 August

FAQS

What happens next?

1. We will review your booking form and be in touch to discuss alternative options if any of your choices are not available. Please allow five working days.

2. You will receive a formal booking confirmation via email. Due to demand please allow up to five working days for your booking confirmation.

3. Please notify us of changes to your numbers because of fluctuations in class size by Friday 5 September and we will do our best to accommodate them.

4. Your school finance office will receive an invoice after Monday 8 September It is important that this invoice is paid before you attend the Festival.

5. We will be back in touch in September with your ticket document and further information about the facilities on site.

What is the capacity of the venue?

The Times and Sunday Times Forum – 1200

Attivo Garden Theatre – 500

The Hive – 200

Regency Suite, Queens Hotel – 72

Story Shack – 80 VOICEBOX – 80 Is the event suitable for my students?

We work with publishers to recommend key stage and age suitability, however teachers are advised to review featured books before booking to determine suitability for their class, especially around sensitive themes.

What

bring to the events?

All children should bring along notebooks and pencils to join in with the draw-alongs and other interactive activities.

Is there a lunch space?

There is a covered picnic area in the Festival Village available on a drop-in basis.

How do we get to the Festival?

The Festival is held in Montpellier Gardens near Cheltenham Town Centre.

Full details about arriving, parking, getting to venues and more, can be found on our Visit Planning page .

Are there sensory aids available?

Backpacks containing sensory aids such as ear defenders and fidget toys are available on our Festival sites. Please let us know in advance if you would like to borrow any of these for your visit by emailing education@ cheltenhamfestivals.org

Alternatively, speak to a member of the team on the day. Pupils are welcome to bring their own sensory aids to events.

Where can I find advice for preparing a risk assessment?

All venues and events are carefully risk assessed. For advice on preparing your own risk assessment for your visit, and information about our cancellation policy, visit our website.

How do we get in touch?

Contact a member of the Learning and Participation team at education@cheltenhamfestivals.org

With thanks to the Benefact Group for supporting the provision of free tickets for some schools in attendance

Thank you to our Partners and Supporters

Anthony Groves

Jennifer Hayward and Richard Waite

The Sedbury Trust

the public programme Announced on Wednesday 13 August