Sarah Rees reports from the Oakalls and Parklands.
Nineteen children at Finstall Pre-School celebrated World Book Day on March 7, dressing up as their favourite literary characters. Among the book characters represented was a very hungry caterpillar, a cat in a hat, a couple of Snow Whites and a tiger who wanted some tea!
A special book swap formed part of the day’s activities, which also included reading stories and playing musical games.
Four-year-old Olivia said: “I dressed up as the Room on the Broom witch. The cat is the best animal the witch shares her broom with. I love dressing up on World Book Day.”
Thomas, also aged four, was dressed as Thomas the Tank Engine. He said: “I’ve got the whole set of Thomas books. Percy is my favourite train.”
Two-year-old Arriya commented: “My favourite book is Meg and Mog. My Daddy reads the stories to me.”
Teacher Emma Martin said that the children really enjoyed sharing their books. “They all love stories,” she added. “They’ve been excited all week about dressing up today.”
Following the event at the Pre-school, Finstall First School celebrated World Book Day on March 8. The costumes included Ben from Gangsta Granny by David Walliams; Harry from The Scarecrows’ Wedding by Julia Donaldson; and Blaze the Unicorn, from the Unicorn Academy books by Julie Sykes.
Zach, aged seven, was dressed as Wally. “I have five Where’s Wally books. They came in a big box. I love trying to find Wally on all the pages.”
Six-year-old Holly said: “I’m Tabby McTat – which makes me a boy for the day! It’s a brilliant book. There’s a sad bit in the middle but it has a happy ending.”
Matthew Mason, deputy head at Finstall First School, stressed the importance of celebrating World Book Day. “At a time when young people spend so much time using digital devices it is really important to reinforce the joy of reading a printed book.
“There is something special about physically turning the page as a story unfolds. Reading books together in school helps children develop listening skills and encourages group discussion.”
WHAT A LOAD OF RUBBISH!
A litter pick took place on the Oakalls on Saturday March 23, as part of the Great British Spring Clean campaign. More details will follow in the May issue.
Please contact me with your news, views and concerns about any aspect of life on the estate. Email: oakalls@villageonline.co.uk