Poetry Workshop
Creative Firsts
On Tuesday 24 September, as part of The Abbey Fringe week, several Upper III and Lower IV enjoyed the ‘Wicked Words Used Wonderfully’ poetry writing workshop with Vic Pickup and Katie Meehan of South Street’s Poet’s Café.
After a warm-up free writing exercise about ‘cookies’ and readings of poems about ‘firsts’, students crafted their individual poems on the theme. Guided by Vic and Katie, students created poems about a wide variety of ‘firsts’, ranging from the first time they met their cat to the first time they took part in a residential trip. They also learned how to edit their work effectively. At the end of the workshop, a number of enthusiastic Upper III and Lower IV students taking part proudly shared their work with the wider group.
Julie Craig
Journalism and Book publishing workshops
Writing in The Fringe
In celebrating a year of creative industries culminating with The Abbey Fringe, two nonfiction writing workshops took place after school at The Abbey on Tuesday, 24 September.
As well as a book publication workshop, ‘From Creation to Completion’, provided by an Abbey alumna, a ‘Finding the Facts’ journalism workshop was also held in the new Sixth Form Centre. Students from Upper IV to Upper VI enjoyed dedicated workshops concerning their areas of interest with alumna Issy Ronald, Freelance Digital Producer with CNN, providing an in-depth experience of the journalism profession. Students were given opportunities to learn not only about the writing process but also about editing, interviewing skills and pitching a story. In ‘From Creation to Completion’, students learned about the publishing trade, particularly the production and publication process for nonfiction.
Julie Craig
Behind the Mic: Podcasting
It was a delight to welcome back alumna Alicia Burrell (2008 leaver), Senior Podcast Producer for The Economist on Wednesday, September 25, as part of the Abbey Fringe Festival.
Alicia’s ‘Behind the Mic’ talk – the first in a series of presentations by influential people in broadcasting, was a fascinating, colourful, insight into journalism and podcasting. Remembering her days at The Abbey as part of Team Carrington, Alicia recounted her love of writing, and excitement at a work placement at the legendary music magazine NME arranged while at school.
Despite establishing herself in the industry as a talented radio producer, she still felt a calling to podcasting and decided to pursue her dream. Alicia shared how her renewed tenacity and perseverance ensured her break in the industry arrived. It was a clear lesson for all the students listening intently…if at first you don’t succeed, keep trying. After many happy years of journalism in print and radio, she moved into the podcast world and worked on Newscast before joining The Economist.
Having recently completed a trip to India to record The Modi Raj – a story of how the world’s most popular politician rose to power and how he is remaking India, she was back in Reading answering questions from students and staff about her career. As well as sharing insights on what makes a great podcast, she gave astute advice on starting out in the industry. Her journey from The Abbey to becoming a Senior Producer at The Economist is a testament to her dedication and talent.
We thank Alicia, an exceptional guest whose visit has left a lasting impression on the students and staff. Her inspiring journey and valuable insights have enriched our community, and she is always welcome back at The Abbey.
