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Themes
I'm flexible about what I do
during a visit but there are examples for different age groups on my children's visits page and my adults' visits page.
Do phone me and we
can work out the best format for you. I can do
two sessions in a day (each lasting an 1 hour). Note that although splitting
a one-hour session into several shorter ones,
to cater for more kids, might seem like a great
idea, it doesn't work for me.
Where
In general I'm happy to visit
within an hour or so from Glasgow, and occasionally
in the centre of London. If my journey time
is over one hour (e.g. Edinburgh), I'd ask
you to give me 2 sessions to do in the same
area: some teachers link up with another
school nearby.
Cost
and schemes
In Scotland: Live Literature Scotland
scheme
If you're in Scotland, it's nice and simple,
as I'm on the Scottish
Book Trust's 'Live
Literature Funding' scheme, which subsidises
author visits. Any Scottish school (or museum
etc) can apply for funding: all you pay
them is £75 per session. They pay
me another £75 plus expenses. Find
more
information and download a simple application
form on their website. They have two
funding deadlines a year, so you do need
to plan ahead: application deadlines are
usually early February (for sessions planned
to take place April to November) and late
September (for sessions planned to take
place December to March).
If you can't use the Live
Literature Funding scheme
Please contact me to discuss
your needs, and I will give you a price
that takes into account the number of sessions
and the travel time. Usually £150
per session plus travel (40p/mile or rail),
subsistence and VAT (17.5%).
I've also been recommended
on the Reading
is Fundamental scheme, whereby bookshops
host an event for your school and give the
children free books. More information on
their website.
Here's a tip for teachers
who can't get the funding for a visit: ask
your local library or bookshop to host the
event, and bring your class along! You get
me for free!
Preparation
I ask schools to read at least one of my stories ahead of my visit, and will send you a link with information, suggestions, and pictures. I get my kicks from knowing the kids get lots out of my visit, and a little preparation by teachers is the key.
Peace
of mind
Have a look at the Feedback
page to read comments from children or grown-ups
whom I've visited. I didn't make them all
up, honest! I'm also happy to put you in
touch with teachers or librarians who can
speak directly to you.
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