Students in Years 3–6 at both our Melton and Werribee campuses were recently treated to an inspiring Author Visit with award-winning writer and poet Joel McKerrow. Joel captivated the students with his energetic and creative approach to writing, showing them that poetry and story are all around us in music, memories, and everyday life and that many of us enjoy poetry without even realising it!
He encouraged students to write stories inspired by their own memories, using the powerful question “what if…?” to blend truth with imagination. Joel reminded students that first drafts don’t have to be perfect, and that the key to great writing is to simply begin, "think on the page" and let the story unfold.
Joel shared childhood memories that inspired his books and introduced students to his exciting series Heist and Urban Legend Hunters, reading just enough to leave them hanging on a cliffhanger, eager to find out what happens next! He also led a fun and fast-paced storytelling activity, where students turned to a partner and, in just one minute, created wild stories based on images shown on screen, filling the room with excitement and creativity.
It was a fantastic and engaging session that left students buzzing with ideas and inspiration.
Want to place a book order?
Parents can still order Joel’s books through the online portal emailed out recently (orders close Monday, 11th August). All books ordered will be personally signed by Joel and delivered directly to classrooms.
For more information about book ordering, download this flyer.