Poetry Slam at junior school

Noremarsh Junior School welcomed a poet for a special event called Rise Up.

Poet and author Paul Cookson amazed the students with witty and rib-tickling poetry. 

Schools within the Ascend Learning Trust take turns to host the Rise Up events and pick their own topic, with Noremarsh this year choosing poetry. 

The day began with students reading aloud and acting out the interactive poems written by Paul. By altering their tone of voice or the way in which the words were spoken, the students were able to bring to life the words.

Evie from Royal Wootton Bassett Academy proudly claimed first place, with Sam from Noremarsh Junior School and Florrie from Wellington Lions Primary coming in a well-deserved joint second. 

All thoroughly enjoyed the day, with Paul leaving all the students and staff in fits of laughter. 

The poet returned the next day for workshops with all children at Noremarsh Junior School, with each class creating their own poems. 

Hilary MacMeekin, Headteacher at Noremarsh, said: “Paul Cookson is a family favourite poet. Every child got involved with the actions and chanting along to Paul’s poems. 

"Paul returned on the Tuesday after a successful first day with the trust students, for a workshop with our children to teach them how to create their own poetry. 

"Both days were great fun and Paul had us all in stitches and I hope to have Paul visit again next year for our school’s next Rise Up event.”