Hay Festival Scribblers ignites children’s creativity at Wrexham Glyndwr University visit

Youngsters gained inspirational insights into the writing process as Wrexham Glyndwr University welcomed a major touring literary festival. 

A total of 114 pupils from secondary schools across Flintshire and Wrexham attended the Hay Festival Scribblers tour. 

Playwright, novelists and poets held interactive sessions with pupils from years seven to 10 at two events at Plas Coch campus. 

Amber Percy, WGU Widening Access Coordinator, said: “We are thrilled to have been invited back to WGU this year for another instalment of the Scribblers tour!

“Our young people really benefit from these amazing free sessions! Not only do we get to visit our local university which familiarises pupils with higher education and the opportunities available to them in the future, but we have access to fun, interactive workshops delivered by some if the best children’s authors in the country!

“It’s amazing to hear their stories and how they relate their creativity to their own personal journeys. Our pupils have been truly inspired again this year!”

Novelist, playwright and poet Steve ‘Polarbear’ Camden, alongside author Kiran Millwood Hargrave, sessions with year seven and eight pupils on the first day 

The second day saw sessions with performance poet and playwright Joseph Coelho and Manjeet Mann, an actor and author. 

The children also took a tour of the Plas Coch campus and took part in activities designed to give them a glimpse into university life.

Sarah-Louise Gaffney, Career and Work-Related Education Manager at Bryn Tirion Hall School in Caergwrle, said: As part of our local schools program, it is great to have the Hay Festival Scribblers tour back on campus and to see so many students consider the possibilities of university in the future and where English, reading and writing can take them. A great day full of inspiration and creativity!”