In sunny June, First Story hosted their North West connect event at Manchester Metropolitan University, in partnership with the Manchester Poetry Library and the Festival of Libraries.
The day was hosted by the wonderful Nik Berry, who got students up on stage straight away, keeping everyone’s energy levels up! Kaye Tew, Education Manager at the Poetry Library and Ivan Wadeson, Executive Director at Manchester City Of Literature honoured us with inspiring talks to kickstart the day. We had three brilliant writers, Freddie Machin, Nasima Bee and Sammy Weaver, who worked with the schools in attendance to run poetry workshops. The schools who got stuck into the rhythmic writing of poetry were, Burnage Academy for Boys, Hull 14+ College and Trinity Church of England High School.
We ran two writing sessions that day, one after the warm welcome – filled with prompts and curiosity. The next after a lovely tour of the MMU Campus including the poetry library and lunch! Our afternoon session was busy as the bees in Manchester as students prepared to share their hard work in the afternoon showcase. Each school nominated students to come up and read their poetry in front of the theatre, which took courage and confidence – something that we at First Story champion amongst our Young Writers.
Finally, we said goodbye with a First Story and MCR poetry library goody bag, as schools went on their way home.
We are incredibly grateful for the support of the Manchester Metropolitan University and of our First Story Writers for making North West Connect such a success.
Participants feedback
Thanks so much for making it engaging and punchy for teenagers. I think it is very important that pupils experience the real world, with real professionals within their own city. A thoroughly enjoyable day.
Teacher, Burnage Academy for Boys
I enjoyed the opportunity to write and see around the university.
Student, Trinity CofE High School
The participants were really well engaged but also really had a lot of fun being outside of school.
First Story Writer
100%
of teachers would recommend taking part in North West Connect to other schools.
85%
of students feel more confident in sharing ideas through writing
100%
of teachers agreed that attending the event has helped their students feel more confident to share ideas through writing.
70%
of participants feel more confident about going to university.
First Story Presents: London Voice 
