The year-round programme is in it’s first year and is supported by Port Waratah’s Community Investment and Partnership Programme. It is lead by eight local writers who design storytelling workshops aligned with the curriculum targeted at Year 5 and 6 students to build their literacy skills.

Already this year, 666 local students have been engaged by the programme in 13 schools. Two of the local authors inspiring the students are Jess Black from Carrington, who is an award-winning author of 47 children’s books, and Karen Eastwood from The Hill, who is an accomplished storyteller, writer, podcast host and educator.  

The aim of Story Hunter is to “explore big ideas with young writers” by supporting literacy, fostering greater enjoyment of literature, and enabling students to express themselves in a creative way. Illustrations are also encouraged and guest artists will be included in the programme.

Newcastle Writers Festival director Rosemarie Milsom said Story Hunter was an extension of the organisation’s traditional annual two-day Schools Program held in Newcastle and Cessnock and would provide meaningful impact in the wake of Covid-19 school closures. 

“A survey by the National Children’s Commissioner, Anne Hollonds, showed that 41 per cent of children aged nine to 17 reported that the pandemic had a negative impact on their wellbeing, and around one in five children said they were feeling more down, scared or worried than they used to,” said Ms Milsom.

“Many children also reported that they had struggled with remote learning due to boredom, lack of learning support, lack of structure, and poor focus. Play and creative expression can help, and we want to work with primary students to develop their storytelling skills in a fun, engaging way. They are guided by expert storytellers.”

Story Hunter is designed to engage young minds and recapture interest in learning literacy for students in the wake of the pandemic.

Port Waratah CEO, Hennie du Plooy, said Story Hunter will bring students together to enjoy literacy and learning in a fun, vibrant, caring environment.

“The impacts of school closures and disruption to student education are still being realised following the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic, and programmes supporting literacy outcomes, like Story Hunter, will help to meet teaching and student needs and inspire the next generation of writers,” said Mr du Plooy.

“Port Waratah is proud to support Story Hunter and Newcastle Writers Festival, and their aim that every child has the skills and confidence to tell their own stories.”

All teachers taking part in the programme agreed that it improved their students’ literacy skills.

“Fantastic resources, passionate speakers and well structured. I couldn't recommend the workshop enough to passionate young writers. Delivering content and first-hand experience in a way most teachers cannot. Thank you!” - teacher, Newcastle East Public School 

Pleasingly, 97 per cent of students had a positive experience and more than 75 per cent said they felt they learned something new.

“It was honestly amazing. I love that [the writers] listened and helped us collaborate to write our own stories” - Alice, aged 12

“I enjoyed the way they got us to think differently about writing” - Matthew, aged 10

“My favourite part was the support and creative ways of explaining activities. And the brilliant, amazing teachers!” - Ivan, aged 11 

Photo credit: Liam Driver

Media Contact: Paul Chamberlin on 0419 233 989 or pchamberlin@tgpublic.com.au