Published 29/11/2011
My Utopia and other reflections
The Oratory Preparatory School’s English Department has published a 400-page anthology – 'My Utopia and other reflections' – which includes interesting, sometimes humorous and often exciting writing from children at all levels.
The creative pieces, collected by the English Department over the last six or seven years, have come from across the age-groups and are certainly not confined to top-set or high-ability pupils.
The editors did not stick to any set criteria, although the advice of one anthology editor proved invaluable in suggesting that a piece should ‘say something, and, say it well’.
There were a number of reasons for publishing a selection of the pupils’ writing. It provides an opportunity for them to see their work in print; it creates interest in the reading and writing of prose and poetry; and it establishes a vibrant and poignant record of pupils’ work at an important time in their lives.
Teachers will find value in the fact that pieces can be used in the classroom to stimulate discussion as pupils are taught to compare and analyse their own and others’ writing.
In the course of each year, children are encouraged to become involved in internal and external competitions in order to compare standards and be assessed by outside adjudicators. The anthology has provided an opportunity to publish those pieces that have done well.
The publication also provides an appendix which includes a record of all competition winners; a list of distinction recipients in the English Speaking Board examination; reports of entries to the Shakespeare Schools Festival; details of success in public speaking and debating, and commentaries on department outings.
It is hoped that 'My Utopia and other reflections' will be of interest to teachers and pupils of schools in the area, as well as former pupils. Copies may be obtained from the School reception.
Some of the younger pupils who have had their work published in 'My Utopia and other reflections' include (top): Anastasia Harrison-Moore and (in front): Lloyd Langley, Antonia Hogan, Jake Elliott, Alfie Seymour, Emilienne Dowsett and Aoife Jones
