Dubai
The Hartland International School in Dubai was a riot of colour last weekend as the school marked the centennial birth anniversary of children’s author Roald Dahl amid much pomp with the Emirates Literature Foundation.
From a parade of popular characters and display of artworks and illustrations of the author to workshops, quizzes and reading sessions, a host of activities was planned by students and staff alike.
As Gypsy Lonergan, a Year 3 student, wrote out her favourite words on a few leaves, there was no hiding her enthusiasm. “We’re going to hang it up on a tree soon, because it’s Roald Dahl Day today. I like him because he’s a very creative man. I really like Charlie and the Chocolate Factory because of the emotions in it.”
For Year 3 teacher Andrew Stenhouse, it was Dahl’s Matilda that stood out. “It shows children that if they’re passionate to learn, they can achieve anything. I think Dahl has a fantastic imagination; his books are beautifully illustrated by Quentin Blake and all his writing is inspirational.”
Much of the appeal of Dahl, even 100 years after his birth, lies in the universality of his characters and messages. As Mary Hulme, another Year 3 Teacher, noted, “Everybody loves him because he’s a little bit naughty, cheeky and dangerous. And the kids always relate to the characters and the settings, whether it is the animals or schools.”
Feast for the eyes
The Emirates Literature Foundation COO Yvette Judge said, “We have been looking forward to seeing the children — and staff — appear in costume inspired by Dahl’s characters, following on from the learning initiatives which took place over the previous weeks. There were quizzes, the chance to create their own book, fun activities — but which all joined together to make the learning experience a fun one. The school was also decorated by the children with artwork inspired by Matilda, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory …. It was a feast for the eyes.”
Fiona Cottam, Hartland principal, added: “We were able to integrate all aspects of cross curricular learning to our planning. This enabled our pupils to not only have a deep and enriched learning experience, but also ensured that they enjoyed their learning in a measurable and demonstrative way.”
