schools
I work as a storyteller throughout the education sector in Foundation Phase, Key Stage One, Key Stage Two and in Secondary Schools. Visits to schools begin with storytelling on any one of a number of themes which we can decide on when we plan the visit. Schools have the option of follow-up literacy sessions in either poetry or narrative. I also work with a number of different artists to create multi-disciplinary projects.
I use an engaging and participatory storytelling style has made me a firm favourite with schools and libraries throughout the country. Visits to schools that have a creative writing element are eligible for a subsidy through Literature Wales' Writers on Tour scheme.
I have developed simple and effective methods of class-created narrative and poetry. For examples of poetry created by children following storytelling sessions go to the poetry blog. I also have a number of oracy into literacy strategies that give groups of varied ages and abilities the tools to create new, original and compelling stories like the one below...
I work as both a Creative Agent and Creative Practitioner with the Wales Arts Council/Welsh Government Lead Creative Schools Scheme collaborating with other artists, staff and learners to create and deliver projects that promote creative learning prior to the introduction of the new curriculum for life by 2022.
Michael Harvey at the Wales Millennium Stadium celebrating boy's literacy
Training for Teachers
Developing Creativity
With the increasing demand for creative teaching and learning skills as the Lead Creative Schools scheme extends through Welsh schools in preparation for the introduction of the new curriculum so there is a need for teachers to be able to deliver education creatively. I offer training days for teachers which will help them develop their own creative skills and confidence in order to facilitate their students own creativity. The sessions are available to schools, local authorities, Regional Education Consortia and any body responsible for the delivery of creative learning and teaching.
I run a programme of practical storytelling training called Look no Book to promote the central role storytelling plays in Oracy into Literacy and Welsh second language acquisition. I also offer training in practical creativity for teachers. Go to the workshops page for more information
out and about on a Lead Creative Schools Project
“An extraordinary example of collaborative creativity”
“Michael Harvey sparked the children’s imagination and took them on a magical journey through the Mabinogion. He held them spellbound as active listeners. Then he offered numerous different ways for them to explore the story creatively, and always encouraged them to develop focus, support each other and to reflect on their experience. He is a great asset to any school he works in!”