Schoolchildren inspired to become poets and storytellers

As children across the country celebrated their favourite books and book characters for World Book Day, LJMU played host to 200 high school pupils to encourage a continued participation in reading and to inspire them to explore the art of creative writing.

The Year 7, 8 and 9 pupils from schools across the Liverpool City Region, were invited onto campus by the Diversity and Inclusion, Outreach and School of Education teams, to hear from writers and poets, and to partake in discussion about reading, literature, poetry and all forms of writing.

Inspirational LJMU alum Joseph Roberts shared how he became a poet

Headlining the event was 2024 LJMU English Literature and Creative Writing graduate Joseph Roberts.

Known as The Liverpool Poet, Joseph’s career was kick-started alongside his studies and he has fulfilled spoken word commissions for huge brands like Nike, Uniqlo and Liverpool Football Club.

Joseph spoke to the children about his journey of becoming a poet, the importance of entrepreneurship, and the habits that have supported him in advancing his dreams. He also supported the children with writing prompts to enable them to pen their own poems.

Read more about alum Joseph and how he embarked upon a career in poetry including guidance from LJMU student support services received during his studies.  

Writers presented their work and gave insights into their careers

Acclaimed local writer Jennifer Hayashi Danns shared insights into her writing, how to get published, and signposted the pupils to organisations that can help young people to get into a variety of careers in the Arts.

Actress, writer and poet Vera Chok recorded a special series of poetry readings for pupils and works written by LJMU’s Professor Gerry Smyth were read aloud by Professor Joe Moran.

Immersive backdrops

Local business Focal Studios, an award-winning immersive experiences company co-founded by double LJMU graduate Dennis Outten, provided vibrant projected backdrops for the day. Each backdrop was a bespoke creation, adding a magical visual for each of the writers and poets.

‘Celebrating a shared love of reading’

Phil Bakstad, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at LJMU, spoke on behalf of Moni Akinsanya, Associate Director Diversity and Inclusion, during the event which also recognises that 2026 is the National Year of Reading – a UK-wide campaign designed to inspire more people to make reading a regular part of their lives.

Today’s event is one of a range of Diversity and Inclusion funded projects taking place across the university this year and it’s really great to see that what started off as a conversation between colleagues in the School of Education has, with this funding, been able to grow into all of us being together today to celebrate a shared love of literature and reading.

Phil Bakstad, Diversity and Inclusion Manager at LJMU

LJMU will continue to work with its partner schools who attended the World Book Day Children’s Literature Festival event through various activities including a writing competition.