Annington has inspired several schools across the country to take part in a Reading Challenge this summer holiday, thanks to the help of Epic Tales storytelling. Children at Watton Westfield Infant and Nursery School, close to Annington’s collection of homes on Tedder Close, were treated to a visit from a storyteller to launch the exciting new initiative at the end of term.
Five primary schools near locations that Annington is selling homes are participating in the summer reading programme hosted and supported by the company, to encourage children to develop their interest in reading and sharing stories. In partnership with storyteller Chip Colquhoun from Epic Tales, pupils let their imaginations run wild as part of an afternoon workshop and were treated to three stories, including the tale of Anansi and the Tiger.
The story, set during a long drought in an African forest, reveals that Tiger has found the only tree still bearing fruit, and greedily decides to keep it for himself. To teach him a lesson, Anansi the spider ties up Tiger in his sticky spider web – represented by Chip the storyteller wrapping the class teacher to a chair using sticky tape, to the delight of the children!
Afterwards, to encourage the children to read at least one book over the summer holidays, Annington donated an array of books for pupils to enjoy.
Stacy Whitehead, Marketing Manager at Annington, said: “Reading and telling stories is so important – not just for developing a child’s literacy skills, but for their imagination too. Yet, as our world becomes more and more digital, the importance that reading and telling stories once held has sadly lessened. This is why we have organised a Reading Challenge for schools neighbouring our developments to partake in this summer. We could not be prouder of all the efforts made so far, and we cannot wait to hear about all the new stories the children have read over the holidays!”
Neve Lucas, class teacher from Watton Westfield Infant and Nursery School, adds: “The children really enjoyed the story telling session and got caught up in all the fun. It was great to see them getting fully involved in the magic of stories, and they are all really excited to take up Annington on their Reading Challenge this summer. This is such a great initiative, and we thank Annington for providing the opportunity for our pupils to get involved.”
Annington is refurbishing former Ministry of Defence homes in Watton, with the first phase of homes launching in September. To find out more and reserve your interest, contact the appointed selling agent Abbotts via 01953 882 882.