On Thursday, 30 students from across Years 7-10 attended 'Once Upon a Festival'. They spent the day attending workshops and talks presented by Australian authors and illustrators, including Claire Richards, Lili Wilkinson, Alison Tait, Candice Fox, Michael Gerard Bauer, Allayne Webster, Belinda Murrell and Wai Chim. Students connected with each other and industry experts. The creatives empowered our students with knowledge of their craft and the publishing industry. They were challenged to write and illustrate their own stories and to read broadly and voraciously.

Some insights from the students:

“I learnt I have to persevere if I want to pursue my dreams of being an author. It was a really inspiring experience. I had no idea how much we rely on stories to help build our reality.” - Eva 8LTHO

"This is an experience that I will forever remember and will influence and shape my future works and ideas. From book lovers and art fanatics, there is something for everyone. Books, food and incredible opportunities. Fun for all." - Sancho 7RBRO

"Super interesting, I love learning how to think creatively. I learnt that planning is the key for a good story." - Lucy 10SSCH

"The Once Upon a Festival is a great way to connect with other readers in and out of Concordia and get key insight into the creative process." - Elizabeth 9CRID

"It was a marvel for the ages. Ideas come from everywhere and anywhere." - Jack 7NBRO

"I learnt techniques for building stories and creative writing, and that once you know your setting and the character the plot comes naturally after." - Gwendolen 10JMCP

Hajnalka Molloy
Learning Resources Manager