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At Caudwell Children, we believe that every child deserves to enjoy the magic of reading, writing, and storytelling. That’s why we were thrilled to welcome over 160 guests to our Caudwell International Children’s Centre for a day of immersive literacy!
Empowering Neurodivergent Young People Through Shaping Futures
In partnership with the National Literacy Trust Stoke-on-Trent, Let’s Chat, Play and Read was specifically designed for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN). Developed in collaboration with our Shaping Futures students, this event aimed to bring the world of books and creativity to life in an engaging and accessible way.
Our Shaping Futures programme is dedicated to empowering neurodivergent young people aged 16-25, equipping them with essential life and employability skills to help them thrive. Whether their next step is a job, work experience, or volunteering, we ensure they feel confident and ready.
Nicola Stanway, from our Employability team, shared her pride in the students’ efforts:
“The wonderful Shaping Futures students have worked incredibly hard to create a literacy event that is truly inclusive for SEN children. Partnering with the National Literacy Trust has strengthened their skills and provided them with vital resources to make this event a huge success. It was also heartwarming to see so many families engaging in the activities and enjoying a vibrant, supportive environment.”
Addressing the Urgent Literacy Needs in Stoke-on-Trent
Did you know that over three-quarters of wards in Stoke-on-Trent have some of the greatest literacy needs in the country? This is why our partnership with the National Literacy Trust is so important. Together, we are making a real impact by ensuring every child has access to the life-changing power of literacy.
The National Literacy Trust shared their appreciation for the collaboration:
“It has been an absolute pleasure working with Caudwell Children’s Shaping Futures students. Over six weeks of planning workshops, they took pride and ownership in designing interactive literacy activities for children and families. On the day, they helped deliver these activities, from reading to children in the Reader’s Retreat to making sparkly Stick Men in the craft area. They should be so proud of their successful event!”
A Day Filled with Storytelling and Creativity
From Gruffalo-themed trails to interactive storytelling and hands-on crafts, the event was a perfect for book lovers and budding writers.
Activities included:
- Gruffalo-Themed Trail – Bringing the beloved story to life through interactive play.
- Build Your Own Stick Man – Encouraging creativity and fine motor skills.
- Little Writers Creative Writing Station – Inspiring young minds to create their own stories and poems.
- Stoke City FC Active Literacy – Combining movement and literacy for a fun learning experience.
A child who attended the event shared their excitement:
“I’ve had a fantastic time; it’s inspired me to read more and write stories of my own.”
One parent also expressed their thoughts:
“We attended the event with our 16-year-old son who has profound learning disabilities. We had a fabulous day – it was interactive, inclusive, and truly special. It’s the first literacy event we’ve ever participated in, and we loved every minute of it.”
Join Us in Making a Difference
This event was just one of the many ways Caudwell Children strive to create opportunities for SEN children and young people.
Want to learn more about our Shaping Futures programme and how we support young people? Click here.
