DEFYING the snow that shut 10 schools last Thursday, both St Bartholomew’s Primary School and The Royal Junior School not only stayed open, but also celebrated World Book Day in style.

The highlight of an action-packed programme organised by St Bart’s literacy subject leader Toby Glover, was the opportunity to dress up as a favourite literary hero or heroine – and a school “takeover” by pirates, wizards and fairy princesses.

He said: “The children were equally shocked to see that their teachers were also dressed as classic children’s book characters.

“All the English lessons had a poetry theme and the best poem written by each class will be published in a book called ‘Stories for Kids’ and the money from its sales money will help save wild animals. The book will be created by pupils in the creative writing club.

“The children also had a special assembly. Younger ones had questions, games and a magical story and older pupils took part in a three round quiz that involved questions, charades and a ‘Pointless’ round, based on the popular TV game show.

“In the afternoon, each class had a guest teacher come in to read a story. The children finished the day by designing and building a themed book corner in their classroom.

“The best book corners will win special books for their classes. Everyone had a wonderful time and went home keen to get stuck into a good book.”

Royal Junior School pupils, who went to town on their costumes, were thrilled to find their head Kerrie Daunter transformed into fearsome Miss Trunchbull, the fictional headmistress of Crunchem Hall Primary School in Roald Dahl’s Matilda.

Pupils also enjoyed special lessons and a World Book Day-themed assembly, and were presented with book tokens to inspire them to read more books.

The Royal Senior School held a book sale to raise money for a literacy charity and teachers read short literary excerpts during lessons to celebrate the international event, now in its 21st year.

PRIZE-WINNING poet and author Mimi Thebo was special guest at King Edward’s Witley.

Dr Thebo, whose stories for young people have been praised for their ability to ‘capture an authentic teen voice’ gave a presentation to the whole school and led a creative workshop for year seven pupils.

“I had a terrific morning,” she said. “There is already an entrenched engagement with reading and a real love of books.

“The students in my workshop were bright, creative, and did some marvellous writing.

“There is a great deal of talent at King Edward’s. I think the literary world might hear from some of them in the future.”