Students from Bath’s Norland University of Early Childhood helped bring Julia Donaldson’s latest book, Gruffalo Granny, to life for hundreds of families at Westonbirt Arboretum.
More than 700 people attended free storytelling sessions at the arboretum, where Norland students used props, character voices and Makaton signing to engage young children. Demand for the sessions was so high that the students added extra sessions during the day.
The event, held on October 28, also gave the students an opportunity to put their early childhood learning into practice, particularly around language, literacy, communication and inclusion.
First-year student Molly said: “Taking part in the Gruffalo Granny storytelling at Westonbirt was such a special and rewarding experience.
“It was wonderful to see how engaged the children were, from those hearing the story for the first time to those joining in and reciting it with us word for word.
“I also loved seeing how Makaton helped make the storytelling more inclusive so that children throughout the audience could feel involved.”
Third-year student Isla said the students used props, character voices and Makaton alongside the story.
She added: “One child had a hearing impairment, and his parents were so grateful that the experience was inclusive. Seeing their excitement and curiosity made every minute worth it.”
Amanda Wilkinson, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Learning & Teaching) at Norland, said: “Storytelling is a powerful tool for supporting children’s language, literacy, imagination and communication skills, and this event enabled our students to put those principles into practice while helping families enjoy a memorable experience together.”
Fay Breed, Events Manager at Westonbirt, said: “The response was phenomenal. The students went above and beyond, adding extra sessions to meet demand and helping to create a memorable, inclusive experience for everyone who attended.”
Westonbirt, The National Arboretum is run by Forestry England, with around 5,000 people visiting the attraction overall on the day.
Photo: Norland students performing Gruffalo Granny at Westonbirt Arboretum.