Patron of Reading by Marie Jean

Background

Jon_Biddle — 2026-08-12 20:26:15 UTC

Author visits to schools are often one of the highlights of the academic year, enjoyed by children, staff and writers alike. However, after the initial ‘high’, the energy created by the visit can sometimes be lost as the reality and pressure of the school timetable takes over. The patron of reading initiative is designed to ensure that the momentum created by a visit is maintained.

Tim Redgrave, headteacher at Ysgol Esgob Morgan, and author Helena Pielichaty came up with the idea of schools having a patron of reading in 2012. A patron of reading is an author, poet, illustrator or storyteller with whom a school forms a long-term attachment. The patron and school work closely together to promote reading for pleasure over one to three years, creating a real reading buzz in the school.

The patron of reading role

Jon_Biddle — 2026-08-12 20:28:48 UTC

The role of the patron varies widely from school to school, but there are some key ideas that have been adopted by most partnerships. Most important is to host a patron visit at least once per year during their tenure, although in many cases it is more often. This aspect of the partnership is organised and paid for just like any other author visit. Patrons can also maintain contact between visits online.

There are no hard and fast rules. Several partnerships have set up successful blogs containing contributions not only from the patron but also from staff, pupils and their parents. Participation from families is key. They are invited to special assemblies, book signings and after-school sessions. Many schools also send an online newsletter, jointly written by the school and the patron, introducing the scheme and providing tips on how parents can support and nurture their children’s passion for reading. There are plenty of examples online of how schools and patrons have developed their partnerships, providing ideas and inspiration.

Guidance for patrons

Jon_Biddle — 2026-08-12 20:44:44 UTC

1. Make sure your patron of reading profile is up to date.

Please limit it to 20 lines on the Padlet and include:

name
website link
contact details
where you are
age groups you work with
a very short bio
what you offer as a patron

Choose the column that is nearest to you, although do make it clear if you're happy to travel more widely.

2. Agree the practical details in advance. Make sure you know who your main contact is, who you will be working with and how the day will be organised. Agree what the school expects from you, what you need from them, fees, travel arrangements and the frequency of future visits.

3. Find out what the school wants from the partnership. Talk to the school about why they chose you, what they hope the partnership will achieve and what motivates their pupils. Find out about their existing reading culture and any particular areas in which they would like your support.

4. Share your own reading life. Tell the school about the books, authors, genres and types of reading you enjoy. You are there as a reading role model, so be prepared to recommend books and talk enthusiastically about what you love to read.

5. Plan for reading for pleasure, not just an author visit. Your first visit is an opportunity to start building the relationship. Think about ways you can get children talking about books, recommending books to each other and discovering new authors and genres. Find out what the school needs and see what the children respond to.

6. Think about what happens after you leave. The visit is only the beginning. Agree how you will maintain contact between visits and how often you will communicate. This could include online chats with pupils, video messages, virtual book recommendations or other creative ways of keeping the conversation going. The aim is to maintain momentum and build the relationship over time.

Guidance for schools

Jon_Biddle — 2026-08-12 21:01:43 UTC

1. Choose your patron carefully. Think about why you want a patron of reading and what you hope the partnership will achieve. Look for a patron whose reading interests and personality will connect with your pupils. If possible, choose someone with whom the school already has a connection. Contact the potential patron and organise an online chat to discuss details.

2. Appoint a member of staff to coordinate the partnership. Make sure the patron has a clear point of contact who can organise visits, communicate regularly and help turn ideas into action. This person can also help the patron understand the school's reading culture, pupils and priorities.

3. Agree expectations from the outset. Discuss what you would like the patron to do, how often they will visit, how you will stay in touch between visits and what you will each contribute. Agree fees, travel expenses and any other practical arrangements before the partnership begins.

4. Make the patron part of your reading community. Introduce them to staff, pupils and families and give them opportunities to see how reading happens across the school. Involve them in book recommendations, discussions, assemblies, book clubs or other activities that help create a reading buzz.

5. Involve families. Think about ways the patron can connect with parents and carers as well as pupils. This could include family reading events, online chats or opportunities for families to meet the patron. Family participation can help extend the reading culture beyond school.

6. Think beyond the visits. The most successful partnerships build momentum over time rather than treating the patron as an author who simply visits occasionally. Agree how you will keep the relationship going between visits through online conversations, video messages, pupil questions or other ideas that work for your school. The possibilities are endless.

Joffre White

2026-08-13 02:41:24 UTC

I'm a children's author with 15 years experience of school visits, having led over 2000 sessions. My Reading Motivator workshops inspire and engage children, taking young readers on an exciting journey into a world of books. I have been a Patron of Reading at several schools and am passionate about working alongside enthusiastic educators to develop a lasting love of reading.

https://www.joffrewhite.com

Neal Zetter

2026-08-13 06:35:06 UTC

I'm a London-based award-winning children's author and performance poet who has been visiting schools for the last 25+ years. I've published 15 poetry books and use my fun interactive poetry to develop literacy, confidence and creativity in all school ages. My school visits can include assembly performances, poetry writing workshops, Q&As poetry slam competitions, book sales/signings and INSETS. Please contact me at: neal@cccpworkshops.co.uk.

https://www.cccpworkshops.co.uk

Joshua Seigal

joshuaseigal — 2026-08-13 07:58:17 UTC

I am Joshua Seigal - an award-winning poet based in London. I have been visiting schools for over a decade, where I have been entertaining and inspiring pupils of all ages and abilities with my inspiring workshops and performances. I can work with any groups, of any size, and can visit any schools within commuting distance of London. I have had several books published, including 'I Don't Like Poetry', and am a two-time winner of the Laugh Out Loud Book Award. I would love to visit your school!

www.joshuaseigal.co.uk

Dan Worsley

2026-08-13 08:27:08 UTC

I’m Dan Worsley, children’s author and performance storyteller. Currently, I’ve written seven books including the Eric Appleby trilogy. I’m based on the border of Lancashire and Greater Manchester and visit around fifty schools each year. I’ve previously been a patron in several different schools. Visits often feature storytelling performances, assemblies, writing workshops, Q&As and book signings. I’m open to all suggestions when it comes to visits, and happy to think outside the box!

https://danworsley.com

Paul Jenkins

2026-08-13 09:02:48 UTC

Who is this man in the silly hat?

And what on earth is he doing?

Why is he here causing this fuss?

And what is that strange ballyhooing?

Well, hopefully, it’s me, in your assembly hall, kicking off the day with fun, frivolity and fabulousness. I’m based in the North West but travel all over. I’ve got twelve years of this author lark under my belt now and am passionate about the power of reading to build relationships and enhance empathy. I’ve written poetry, novels and even a terrible, terrible joke book.

pauljenkinspoet@gmail.com

www.pauljenkinspoet.co.uk

Kathryn Beevor

2026-08-13 09:57:07 UTC

I’m a new UK children’s poet based in South Bucks. A former English teacher, I bring extensive experience of working with children. My books, Peak Poetry and Moon in the Morning, combine students’ poetry and artwork with those of famous poets and illustrators. In my sessions, I show children first-hand what they can achieve. I’m looking to partner with a school initially on a voluntary basis, helping to inspire children to enjoy reading. Please get in touch via my site.

https://kasin.org.uk/kathryn-beevor-poet-educator

Josie Dom

2026-08-13 10:55:42 UTC

I’m Josie Dom, an Essex-based children’s picture book author. I have published three books (Lum, Lum’s Mum and Animalympics) and have been visiting schools for 10 years. I inspire a love of reading through fun, interactive visits and a shared love of stories. I work with children in KS1 and KS2, and am happy to travel across the South East or offer virtual visits. I already have lots of ideas about being a Patron of Reading and would be delighted to develop these to meet your school’s needs.

josiedom@josiedom.co.uk

www.josiedom.co.uk

Attie Lime

2026-08-13 11:27:32 UTC

Hi, I'm Attie Lime, a children's poet based in the East Midlands. I'm the author of Blue Jelly and Strawberries, A Welly Full of Christmas, and Poems on Toast. I visit schools across the country to share my love of words and books. Visits are interactive, inspiring, and fun! I'm also happy to spend time with reading ambassadors, aspiring authors, and any child who might benefit from a chat withan author. I'm a former teacher and work with all age groups. Get in touch for a chat: attielime@outlook.com.

www.attielime.co.uk

John Dougherty

john1992 — 2026-08-13 16:17:57 UTC

Hi! I'm John Dougherty, an award-winning author & poet. I've been bringing high-energy sessions featuring story, poetry, songs, fun and inspiration to schools across the UK and beyond for well over 20 years. I was one of the first Patrons of Reading in the UK, I work with all age-groups, and I'd love to be patron at a primary school that wants to put reading for pleasure at the heart of its work. I'm particularly keen to hear from Gloucestershire schools, but will travel if I'm a good fit!

https://www.visitingauthor.com

Cathy Faulkner

books12 — 2026-08-13 17:06:24 UTC

Hi! I’m Cathy Faulkner, a Carnegie-longlisted author of historical middle-grade fiction in free verse. My books encourage children to see the world from different perspectives and engage readers of all confidence levels. With 30 years’ teaching experience, I can work with all ages, although my visits are best suited to years 3–8. I love visiting schools and make every session informative, interactive and inspirational. I’m a passionate advocate for reading for pleasure and love working with schools to promote this. Do get in touch: books@cathyfaulkner.co.uk.

www.cathyfaulkner.co.uk

Sarah Hagger-Holt

2026-08-13 18:22:07 UTC

Hi, I'm Sarah Hagger-Holt, author of warm-hearted, inclusive books about family and friendship which centre all types of families. I'm also twice-winner of the Little Rebels Award for children's fiction. I work part-time in a library developing activities for all ages, volunteer with Bookmark, and love visiting schools, offering interactive assemblies and workshops usually for upper KS2 and lower KS3. I'm based on the border between London, Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire. Drop me a line at hello@sarahhaggerholt.com.

https://www.sarahhaggerholt.com

Richard O'Neill MBE

rroneill — 2026-08-13 19:09:23 UTC

After two decades as a storyteller, author and workshop facilitator, I'm still trying to tell the best stories, write the best books and deliver the best workshops that I can. I love school residencies and can't wait to be your school's Patron of Reading!

https://richardthestoryteller.weebly.com

Fiona Barker

2026-08-13 19:57:26 UTC

I write picture books and like dressing up. I write fiction (like The BIG Christmas Bake and Fox’s Favourite Autumn) and non-fiction (Animals Assemble is coming soon). I specialise in interactive sessions for early years and KS1 although I also love talking to older children and adults about picture books. I can’t guarantee to bring the glitter ball but I can promise a lot of fun! From October, I can also bring The Book Buzz reading bus on my visit! Email me at info@fionabarker.co.uk.

www.fionabarker.co.uk

Charlotte & Adam Guillain

chuiguillain — 2026-08-14 12:40:20 UTC

Hello! We have been writing picture books together for over a decade - Charlotte also writes non-fiction and Adam runs storytelling workshops. We visit primary schools as a duo, bringing a wide range of interactive activities to everyone. We spend time with teachers, planning each visit to ensure it's tailored to your children's needs and interests, as well as exploring topics you're covering. We're based near Oxford and would love to hear from you!

https://www.adamandcharlotteguillain.co.uk

Eric Huang

2026-08-14 15:24:07 UTC

I’m a dinosaur- and mythology-loving children’s author. I’m best known for Guardians of the New Moon, a fast-paced middle grade fantasy adventure series packed with magical creatures, epic quests, and East Asian mythology. I’m also the author of several nonfiction picture books. Through virtual and in-person drawing activities, storytelling sessions, and creative writing workshops, I work with schools and libraries to get students aged 5-11 excited about reading. I live in London. You can reach me at eric@dinoboyltd.com or on Instagram @erichuangbooks.

Tia Fisher

2026-08-15 18:55:52 UTC

Hi, I'm Tia Fisher, a multi-awarding-winning author for teens and middle-grade readers. Operation Doodlebug, my first MG historical prose adventure, is out in Nov 26. I've also published two verse novels for teens: Crossing the Line and Not Going to Plan. I make my books as accessible and entertaining as possible, without sugar-coating truths that need to be discussed. I'm happy delivering sessions to upper KS2 and year 7 upwards. I would LOVE to partner with a local school (Norfolk) to help develop a love of reading. Please get in touch if you think we'd be a good fit.

www.tiafisher.com/visits

Susannah Lloyd

2026-08-15 20:50:01 UTC

Susannah Lloyd is an award winning picture-book and middle-grade author based in West Yorkshire. Her books feature scoundrels, blunderers, shenanigans, and VERY unreliable narrators. They have been recommended in BookTrust's Great Book Guide 2025-2026. Her workshops and assemblies are designed to get children excited about reading for pleasure and the power of their imaginations. They are inclusive of all skill levels, engaging reluctant and confident readers alike.

info@susannahlloyd.com

www.susannahlloyd.com

Sarah Ziman (AKA BardyMum)

2026-08-15 22:36:35 UTC

Hi, I'm Sarah Ziman, an award-winning children's poet, currently living in Hertfordshire. My first collection Why Did My Brain Make Me Say It? was shortlisted for Wales Book of the Year. My new collection Bison Rule, OK! has just been published. I visit schools all over the country, and am happy to do sessions with all primary age groups. EYFS visits are performance-based, and those with KS1 and KS2 will result in a collaborative poem. I'm a huge reader, library advocate, and passionate about introducing poetry to children who don't yet know that they love it! Email me at sarah.ziman@gmail.com.

www.sarahziman.co.uk

James Carter

jamescarterpoet — 2026-08-16 08:17:39 UTC

Hello! I'm James Carter, prize-winning children's poet/non-fiction writer/musician. I'm based in Oxfordshire and work primarily in the South, but I also travel far afield. I write for - and very happily work with - all the Primary ages. I offer highly interactive and wholly creative days to inspire teachers as well as children. I'm a trained early years teacher. I've been writing for 30 years; for 20 of those I've visited some 1500+ schools. And I love it! Nothing beats getting children excited about reading! My books are used widely in schools all over the UK.

jamescarterpoet@btinternet.com

www.jamescarterpoet.co.uk

Laura Henry-Allain

laura3456 — 2026-08-16 13:15:03 UTC

Hi. My name is Laura Henry-Allain, and I am a children's author, educationalist and consultant. I am the creator of the well-loved, award-winning first Black British animation, JoJo and Gran Gran, developed and produced by CBeebies. My books include My Family, Your Family and the Maya and Marley series. I live in London but am happy to travel across the UK. I am proud to share my dyslexia story during my visits. My sessions include storytelling, assemblies, parent workshops and more. I enjoy working with all age groups from 4-11. You can find me on the socials: @LauraHAllain.

Rebecca Colby

2026-08-16 17:10:37 UTC

I am Rebecca Colby, author, poet, screenwriter and fairy godmother! Although based in North Yorkshire, I'm willing to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo around the country and whip up some reading magic with students in other locations. I write for KS1 and under but also wave wands with KS2 students too. Former teacher, sometimes adult, always a storyteller, as well as a child at heart! Discover more and reach out at www.rebeccacolbybooks/contact

Jonny Walker

2026-08-16 21:19:06 UTC

Hi, I'm Jonny Walker, a children's author, poet and mythologist in education. I write fiction, non-fiction, poetry and folklore, mostly for readers aged 7-13. I work as a specialist arts educator in schools, and run residential poetry retreats and literacy-based SEMH interventions. I'd like to be a patron in primary/junior schools that are seeking an active ongoing creative partnership. London and Yorkshire, ideally, but very happy to travel. See more and contact me on my site.

www.jonny-walker.co.uk

Claire Fayers

2026-08-17 08:02:56 UTC

Hi, I'm Claire Fayers, an award-winning children's author of fantasy novels and Welsh folklore retellings. My workshops are an interactive mix of story-telling, games and creative writing, aimed at getting even the most reluctant readers engaged. I generally work with years 3-7 but I also love talking to older children about all aspects of writing. I'm based in South Wales and would love to partner with a local school. Dw i'n siarad Cymraeg (tipyn bach). www.clairefayers.com

Gita Ralleigh

2026-08-17 09:16:38 UTC

Hello! I am a poet, writer and ex-doctor based in London. I teach creative writing to science undergraduates at Imperial College and am a 'Poet in Schools' for the Poetry Society. I deliver assemblies, teach fun, accessible workshops on poetry and creative writing for KS2 upwards and love online chats with book clubs or classes reading my work. My children’s novels, The Destiny of Minou Moonshine and The Voyage of Sam Singh, are published by Bloomsbury and my poetry for children is widely anthologised. Find find me on Instagram as @gita_ralleigh or contact me via my site.

https://gitaralleighauthor.com

Matt Oldfield

2026-08-17 09:17:11 UTC

Hi there, my name is Matt Oldfield and I'm the author of the Unbelievable Football series (winner of the 2020 Children's Sports Book of the Year) and the Johnny Ball: Football Genius and Football Spy fiction series, as well as the co-author of the bestselling Ultimate Football Heroes, Ultimate Cricket Superstars and Ultimate Rugby Superstars books. Basically, anything sports-related, and I'm in! Alongside my writing, I do lots of school visits. If you're a school in the Bristol/Bath area, then I'd love to be your patron! I'm really happy to build that all-important love of reading in whatever way I can. Please contact me at oldfield.matt@gmail.com

David Barker

2026-08-17 09:22:16 UTC

Hi, I'm David Barker, a Berkshire-based author of children's futuristic adventures (sci-fi and dystopia), thrillers for grown-ups and pantomime scripts. I love giving interactive talks about my books and how to set stories in the future, as well as workshops on creative writing. I keep a diary of all the books I read, aiming for three a month, and sometimes go on Radio Berkshire to talk about my favourites. I visit a number of local schools every year, working with years 4-8, and would love to find some new schools to share the love of reading with. Happy to travel around the home counties.

https://davidbarkerauthor.co.uk

Jude Lennon

jude105 — 2026-08-17 09:50:47 UTC

Hi, I'm Jude, an author, storyteller and bookworm. I'm a former EYFS/KS1 teacher who loves to visit schools delivering author talks, storytelling sessions and drama workshops to EYFS-KS2. Although based in Liverpool, I work across the North West, Yorkshire, Wales, and anywhere else that is kind enough to ask me. I'm a Literacy Champion for the National Literacy Trust, an ambassador for UK Reads Charity and a core member of the Liverpool Literacy Cycle. I'm very excited about becoming a Patron of Reading again. Get in touch at jude@littlelambpublishing.co.uk.

https://littlelambpublishing.co.uk

Rhiannon Oliver

2026-08-17 12:35:35 UTC

Hi, I'm Rhiannon Oliver, a poet and performer based near Cardiff. My debut poetry collection Fresh is fully illustrated by Chris Riddell and suitable for children age 7+, but I write for all ages. I work with primary schools and year 7-8 pupils, and can offer interactive assemblies, Q&As, and lively writing and performing workshops. I can integrate lots of Welsh. I'd love to build a close relationship with a local school and encourage a love of reading and poetry. There's more about me on my website so do get in touch!

www.rhiannonoliver.com

Fay Evans

2026-08-17 15:19:59 UTC

Hello! I'm Fay Evans, children's author and storyteller. I'm in my tenth year of author visits and have visited over 300 schools. My mission is to promote the joy of reading. I write quirky rhyming stories, including Fred The Fire-Sneezing Dragon and Dave The Whale. My interactive and fun-packed storytelling sessions are ideal for EYFS and KS1, and can be adapted for KS2. My visits include an assembly, storytelling, Q&As and book signings. I'm based in Derbyshire but travel far and wide. Please get in touch!

hello@fayevansauthor.co.uk

https://fayevansauthor.co.uk

Ali Sparkes

ali1154 — 2026-08-17 15:44:18 UTC

I've been a Patron of Reading to five different schools over the years and have loved every minute. I'm the Blue Peter Award-winning author of Frozen In Time and The Shapeshifter series and have had nearly 70 titles published. My school visits are lively, comedic and interactive, and I'm comfortable working with any age group (my output covers KS1, 2, 3 and 4). I've been told my repeat visits have helped pull Ofsted grades for reading and writing right up... and I'm very happy to believe it! Email me at ali@alisparkes.com.

www.alisparkes.com

Onyinye Iwu

2026-08-18 06:48:47 UTC

Hello! I’m Onyinye Iwu, children’s book author-illustrator, storyteller and teacher. As an secondary Art and DT teacher, I am very at home in schools. I love to visit primary schools and deliver creative author talks, draw-alongs and art workshops. I am based in South London, and travel across London and beyond to share my love of books and drawing! I am very excited about becoming a Patron of Reading, developing a long-term relationship with schools, inspiring creative minds and bringing a pop of colour to your neighbourhood! Email me at onyinye.iwu@gmail.com.

https://www.onyinyeiwu.com

Adam Bushnell

2026-08-18 06:53:20 UTC

Hi, I’m Adam Bushnell. I’m an award-winning author, storyteller and former teacher based in Durham. After teaching in schools in London, the Netherlands and the North East, I became a full-time author and have now had more than 50 books published. I spend my time visiting schools, leading creative writing workshops and sharing stories that inspire children to read, write and use their imagination. My passion is helping young people discover the joy of storytelling and develop confidence as readers and writers.

https://adambushnell.co.uk/

Marie Basting

2026-08-18 10:04:16 UTC

Since debuting with the acclaimed MG novel Princess BMX, Marie Basting has gained a reputation for making reading fun and accessible. Her books, praised for their humour and heart, have won a Books For Topics award for best curriculum support and inspired educational trails at the world-renowned Roman Baths and Corinium Museum. Told working-class girls like her don’t become writers, Marie's engaging and interactive school events have inspired thousands of young readers to smash stereotypes and defy expectations. Marie lives in Manchester but is happy to travel.

mariebasting.com

Ian Brown

2026-08-18 12:20:08 UTC

Hello – I’m Ian Brown, author of the Albert the Tortoise book series. The ten Albert books are inspired by my 80-year-old family pet tortoise. I'm based in London but offer school visits across the UK, with lively sessions for Reception to Year 3/4, although I happily to work with older pupils. A former journalist, TV writer and producer, I share how books come to life and encourage children to create their own, while exploring resilience and perseverance – it took me 40 years to get published. Sadly, the real Albert doesn’t visit – he stays at home!

info@thebruvs.com

www.alberttortoise.com

Damian Harvey

2026-08-18 13:16:09 UTC

Hi, I'm Damian Harvey, an award-winning author of over 200 books for primary school aged children (a mixture of fiction and non-fiction). I’ve been visiting schools and libraries for over 20 years where I share my love of stories, reading and writing. The aim of my sessions is to get children excited about books and reading for pleasure. My school visits can include a whole school assembly, followed by fun, interactive sessions with classes and year groups where I share stories and answer lots of questions. I live in North Wales but am more than happy to travel further afield.

author@damianharvey.co.uk

www.damianharvey.co.uk

Chris Dewar

chrisdewar_author — 2026-08-18 13:46:06 UTC

Hi, I'm Chris Dewar, author of the Dyrne Hill series of fast-paced mystery, history, adventure stories for middle-grade readers, designed to spark the imagination and foster a love for reading. I enjoy visiting schools to deliver interactive sessions about being an author, alongside enrichment activities and creative workshops tailored to your students' needs. I'd love to be your Patron of Reading! For more information, please email chrisdewar_author@yahoo.com

Lizzie McLaughlin

2026-08-18 18:54:09 UTC

Hello! I’m Lizzie, a proud townie who has paved her way in the rural community. I’m passionate about food and farming, and about bridging the gap between children, nature and where our food comes from. My debut picture book launches next summer, aimed at children aged 3–8. I’m also an award-winning podcaster, so I love bringing different mediums to my workshops. I’m keen to get into schools to deliver fun sessions that spark enthusiasm for reading and extend learning beyond the page. Based in Cambridgeshire, I’m happy to travel. Email me at lizzielmclaughlin@gmail.com.

https://www.second-nature.co.uk

Chitra Soundar

2026-08-19 04:38:32 UTC

I'm an author and storyteller based in London, but am very happy to travel. I love visiting schools and have delivered 100s of workshops. I've also been a Patron of Reading before. I've written over 65 books for children, including picture books, chapter books, plays and graphic novels, and usually work with primary schools across all year groups. I'm also the creator of and writer of Nikhil & Jay on CBeebies, based on my book series. As a writer for children's television, I would love to work with schools exploring how to write for screen. Email me at chitra@chitrasoundar.com.

www.chitrasoundar.com

Michaela Morgan

michaelamorgan2 — 2026-08-19 11:55:04 UTC

I’m an author and poet with many happy years of experience of school visits and performances. I love to enthuse children (and teachers and parents) and encourage enjoyment of books, reading, poetry and performing. I have approximately 200 titles in print - you will find full details on my website. I cover the widest age range, from tinies to teens. I'm based in Edinburgh so am particularly keen on Scottish schools. However, I also have strong connections in Brighton and Manchester and would be happy to connect with schools in those locations.

https://www.michaelamorgan.com

Jim Beckett

2026-08-19 14:20:46 UTC

Hello! I'm Jim Beckett, author of the Buzz Sausage Wolf series (ages 6-9) and The Caravan at the Edge of Doom series (ages 8-12). I live in West Sussex and enjoy regular visits to primary schools all over the country. A former teacher and comedian, my assemblies and workshops are entertaining, accessible and highly interactive - and I'm always happy to tailor visits and try something new! As a Patron of Reading, I would love to work creatively with pupils and staff to position Reading for Pleasure at the heart of the school's daily life.

https://www.jimbeckett.co.uk

Hannah Moffatt

2026-08-20 07:15:40 UTC

Hello, I’m a Greenwich-based author of weird and wonderful children's fiction. I have three published books so far: Small! (shortlisted for the Waterstones Children's Book Prize), Small Bites Back (the sequel) and Help! Aliens Stole My Grandad (recently a Book of the Week in The Week Junior). I’ve created downloadable worksheets and activities for all my books. I deliver fun, interactive 30-45 minute assemblies. If I’m your patron, I’d love to bring those assemblies and Q&As to your school, as well as offer bonus sessions for classes wanting to share their answers to my worksheet activities. I think I’m best suited to years 2-4 and can’t wait to work with you!

www.hannahmoffatt.com

Shireen Lalji

2026-08-20 11:14:16 UTC

Hi, I am Shireen Lalji, author of So Devin Wore a Skirt, with a new picture book to follow in 2027! I am a huge advocate for diverse and inclusive books for children. As a teacher and school librarian, I LOVE the challenge of finding the right book for the right child. My sessions are fun and interactive, and all about reading for pleasure. As your patron, I will think creatively about ways to include teachers, parents and, most importantly, children in the joyful world of books. I am based in London but happy to travel anywhere there is a train station! Please find me at shireen.lalji@gmail.com.

www.shireenlalji.com

Simon Adepetun

simonadepetun — 2026-08-25 21:41:20 UTC

Hello everyone. My name is Simon Adepetun, a children's author and storyteller based in the North West. I'm the author of The Bee Hive and The Curse of the Deadly Marshmallows. I travel the country promoting reading for pleasure and creative writing. I work mainly with KS2 and KS3 pupils, and my interactive workshops are engaging, motivating and fun-filled. I've been a guest on over 40 radio stations, sharing my passion for what I do, and have visited over 150 schools to encourage and nurture reading for pleasure. Please get in touch at simonadepetun@yahoo.co.uk.

www.simonadepetun.co.uk

Sue Wickstead

suewickstead — 2026-08-26 15:14:18 UTC

My name is Sue Wickstead, and I live in West Sussex. I write children’s picture books, inspired by my experience as a teacher and my adventures working on a Playbus – a double-decker bus that travelled to bring play and fun to young children. I've now published sixteen children’s books. When I’m not writing, I enjoy creating stories and adventures with my grandchildren. My grandson even appears in my 2020 book Barty Barton: The Bear That Was Loved Too Much! I love sharing stories with children and inspiring them to create their own. Please get in contact at suewickstead@aol.com.
https://suewickstead.co.uk

Lexi Rees

2026-08-29 11:57:14 UTC

Hi, I'm Lexi, author of The Relic Hunters series and lots of activity books. I love sharing the excitement of books and storytelling with young readers. My events are lively, interactive and packed with ideas to get pupils involved, creating and growing in confidence. I want children to discover there’s no mysterious secret to books. I also believe in the widest definition of 'reading' - audiobooks, comics, manga, non-fiction, cereal packets… If you’re looking to inspire your pupils and create a brilliant bookish buzz, let’s chat! PS - I’m based in Chichester.

https://lexirees.co.uk/events

Chip Colquhoun

2026-08-29 12:00:04 UTC

Being a Patron of Reading is exactly my bag! My guide to inspiring reading for pleasure is currently in the running for this year's Teach Primary Awards, and parents and teachers say they find my children's books (many illustrated by Korky Paul) to be perfect for turning reluctant readers into recreational readers. Storytelling is the easiest way to spark that love of literacy in your school. I visit the entire UK, and am an Associate Artist of the National Centre for Writing in Norwich. Please contact me via the Society of Authors website: https://societyofauthors.org/soa-member/chip-colquhoun/

Karen McCombie

karenmccombieauthor — 2026-08-29 17:56:08 UTC

I’m Karen McCombie, author of 100+ published books. My books are mainly aimed at KS2 and early KS3. Friendship and family are always my focus. I’ve visited hundreds of schools over the years, delivering talks and workshops. I loved being a Patron of Reading for a local north London primary school for three years. I’d visit for a half-day every half-term, working with different year groups and developing a great relationship with all the children. I’d love to replicate this with a new school in London or south Hertfordshire. Email me at: karenmccombieauthor@gmail.com

www.karenmccombie.com

juliahubery — 2026-09-02 18:39:03 UTC

Hello teachers and librarians! How do we make stories? We PLAY – with words, with plasticine, with doodles! I take the fear out of writing and show everyone YOU CAN DO IT with word games and draw-alongs so everyone gets creative. I write picture books and illustrated fiction, and I’d love to visit your school to hear your children talk about books, writing, their world, the universe - and as a Patron of Reading we'll keep talking, involve parents, and really build something together! Mail me at julia.hubery@proton.me.