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Local author seeks to inspire young writers

Local children’s author Katherine Robinson seeks to inspire another generation of writers by running writing competitions at both Sacred Heart and Tagai Primary School this term.

With several entries already in, she said she was “blown away” by the quality of work students have submitted.

“The stories have been of a very high standard,” she said.

“Many have island settings, some are humorous, while others are heartfelt and moving.

“It’s inspiring to see the children’s creativity and passion come through in their writing.”

Ms Robinson, who writes under the pen name Lynelle Kendall, arrived on Waiben early last year.

In 2022 she visited 10 classes as a volunteer to run writing workshops and talk about the history of Book Week.

This year she said she hoped to double that number, in addition to co-ordinating the writing competitions.

She said the support and collaboration with the schools was invaluable, and particularly thanked Tagai Primary School Principal Rick Cass and Head of Department Early Years Tamara Taumafai, and Our Lady of Sacred Heart Acting Principal David Graham and Acting Leader of Learning and Teaching Peta Mawn, for their support and expertise.

“I’m also grateful to the students for getting involved and sharing their stories with such enthusiasm and joy,” she said.

The winners of the Sacred Heart Writing Competition will be announced at their Book Week parade next Thursday, 24 August.

The Tagai Writing Competition entries close the following day and the winners announced during their school assembly in Week 9 on Friday 8 September.