Northfield Academy are delighted to announce their three year Patron of Reading partnership with graphic novel writer/illustrators John Chalmers and Sandra Marrs of metaphrog. Several schools in England, Wales and the central belt of Scotland have secured Patrons of Reading, though this is the first graphic novel pairing in the UK.
The Patron of Reading scheme was created by Tim Redgrave, School Head in Wales and children’s author Helena Pielichaty. The scheme aims to promote reading for pleasure by giving young people the chance to interact with a real life author who can share their experiences and talk about what inspires them.
John and Sandra from metaphrog have been creating comics, graphic novels and illustrations since 1996, receiving critical acclaim worldwide. They are proud to be working with Northfield Academy;
“We are delighted to be chosen as Patrons of Reading at Northfield Academy and it is very exciting to be the first ever graphic novelists to fill such a role in any school. Graphic novels are not only a means of engaging reluctant readers with literacy but are a lively form of literature for children and adults alike. We are looking forward to our partnership with the school and to encouraging the young readers, writers and artists.”
During their three year term as Patron of Reading at Northfield Academy metaphrog will contribute to the school in a variety of different ways. As well as organised talks/workshops metaphrog will keep in touch in a mutually beneficial partnership which hopes to encourage reading for pleasure across the school.
School Librarian Mandy Wilson is looking forward to the benefits the Patron of Reading partnership will bring:
“We are very privileged to be pairing up with the talented duo from metaphrog. Previous visits have inspired and encouraged youngsters through the medium of graphic novels. We are delighted they have agreed to pair up with our school and look forward to what the future holds. The partnership on both sides will I am sure evolve into something truly great”
