29 June 2007

Do the write thing

A new online resource will help teachers get everyone excited about writing. The website www.everybodywrites.org.uk, which is launched today, provides inspirational ideas and practical resources to support writing in schools. Funded by the Department for Children, Schools and Families, Everybody Writes is a web-based initiative that has been developed by Booktrust in partnership with the National Literacy Trust.

Everybody Writes will officially launch as a national scheme in October. The website will act as an online hub for teachers, allowing them to share information and expertise. The scheme has piloted innovative writing work in London and Birmingham.

In London, Woodmansterne Primary School opened its doors to the wider community, to gather people’s stories and memories of their school. The stories have been compiled in a book that includes contributions from pupils past and present, teachers, parents, dinner ladies and lollipop men.

Allison Edwards, project co-ordinator of Everybody Writes, comments,
“Classroom teachers will be able to come to this site knowing they will find ideas which are fresh, inspiring and very do-able. Whether it’s delivering primary literacy or GCSE Geography, teachers can make use of these practical resources to inject a sense of energy and purpose into their pupils’ writing.”

Julia Strong, deputy director of the National Literacy Trust, comments,
“Everybody Writes seeks to take writing beyond the classroom and to highlight the value of good communication skills not just at school, but in the wider spheres of community life and the world of work. Love it or hate it, school has a powerful influence over our lives. Everyone has a school story to tell, and Woodmansterne’s School Story Book shows how fruitful resources such as Everybody Writes can be in bringing people together to share their experiences through writing.”

For more information visit www.everybodywrites.org.uk

ENDS

Notes to editors
1. About Everybody Writes
Everybody Writes is web-based initiative that seeks to promote writing as a skill for living. Aimed at teachers at both primary and secondary levels, the website provides inspirational ideas and practical resources to support writing in schools. www.everybodywrites.org.uk

2. About Booktrust
Booktrust is an independent charity dedicated to promoting books and reading to people of all ages. Booktrust is responsible for a number of successful national reading promotions, sponsored book prizes and creative reading projects aimed at encouraging readers to discover and enjoy books. For further information please contact Katherine Solomon on katherine@booktrust.org.uk or 020 8875 4583. www.booktrust.org.uk

3. About the National Literacy Trust
The National Literacy Trust is an independent charity that changes lives through literacy. It links home, school and the wider community to inspire learners and create opportunities for everyone. www.literacytrust.org.uk