What do Frazzles, front doors and lost footballs have in common? Stories of course, shares Phil Earle.

Storytelling took centre stage in St Andrew's Performing Arts Centre this week as acclaimed children’s author Phil Earle visited our pupils for an inspiring day of creativity, laughter and imagination. His engaging workshops encouraged every child — from our youngest in Pre-Prep to those preparing for senior school — to discover the stories hidden in the everyday world around them.

Phil’s visit was part of our commitment as an independent school to nurture a lifelong love of reading and writing in all pupils. Through his humour, honesty and energy, he showed our children that reading is not only fun but can open doors to limitless possibilities.

From Reluctant Reader to Award-Winning Author

Phil shared his personal journey — from being a reluctant reader at school to becoming a celebrated writer with more than 30 published titles. His best-known book, When the Sky Falls, has been adapted into a stunning graphic novel and has received major national recognition, including:

• Winner of the British Book Award for Children’s Fiction

• The Times Children’s Book of the Year

• Carnegie Medal shortlist

Phil’s story resonated deeply with pupils, many of whom related to his early experiences of finding reading a challenge. His message was clear: everyone can be a reader, and stories can be found everywhere — even behind a front door, in a lost football or inside a packet of Frazzles.

A Day of Discovery at St Andrew’s

Our Librarian, Carolyn McGlone, described the day as “a celebration of imagination”:

“Phil’s talk in our Performing Arts Centre sparked much laughter and many questions. The children helped Phil to create the beginnings of a brand-new story — and one brave volunteer even dressed up as a superhero!”

Sophie Hearn, Head of English, added:

“It’s rare to find over 120 children sitting so still, completely captivated. Phil reminded them that they can read anything — that stories are everywhere — and that Frazzles are, of course, the best snack ever!”

The energy and excitement filled every corner of the school, reinforcing St Andrew’s dedication to inspiring young readers and fostering creativity across the curriculum.

Inspiring a Love of Reading and Storytelling

At St Andrew’s Prep School in Berkshire, we believe that literacy is more than a subject — it’s the foundation for curiosity, empathy and imagination. Phil’s visit perfectly reflected our approach:

• Encouraging reluctant readers by showing that books can be for everyone

• Connecting reading and creativity through storytelling and play

• Celebrating pupil voice — with our pupil librarians interviewing Phil during breaktime for a feature soon to appear on our social media channels