Military children who are keen readers and creative writers have inspired a club for all aspiring young authors at Ripon Grammar School.
English teacher Emma Sayers first established a reading club for children from forces families in January last year, which attracted 20 members.
Over seven months, they met every Friday lunchtime to read, share and discuss books they were reading, including Maze Runner, Love Radio, Barakah Beats, Holes and Lionheart Girl.
But the group then evolved into something bigger.
Mrs Sayers explained:
“Aspiring Authors was a fantastic idea that one of the service children had.
“Students would often write forces-based poetry, so this seemed like a natural extension of that.
“We decided collectively to open the club up to all students, because as one student said: 'These civilians are the ones who are going to be buying our books, so we need them to read and critique our stories.'"
Mrs Sayers, who previously worked at Le Cateau Primary School, a large forces' school in Catterick Garrison, points out:
“I've received specific training to facilitate service children’s individual needs, and I've worked alongside army families to safeguard and offer assistance with education-based issues.
“In addition to this, my family and I have also experienced a transient lifestyle, due to my husband's work, so I can empathise with my students.
“I felt it was important to set up a specific group just for students from army families; where they could be vulnerable about their lived experiences and share stories about their moves and deployed parents and guardians.
“Many military children use books as a form of escapism, and as an English teacher, I couldn't think of anything more effective, with the exception of fresh air and exercise.
“It’s nice to see students making connections with children across different year groups who understand their lifestyle and its challenges.”
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