Poetry in motion!

The sweet and interesting sound of the 39th annual Oldham Primary Schools Poetry Festival and awards morning, organised by Oldham Metro Rotary Club, was held at the Queen Elizabeth Hall.

In the words of the adjudicator, Hilary Henderson, the standard of performance was exceptional.

Nine cups were presented, 16 Certificates of Commendation and four Special Commendations.

More than 2,600 children took part from 38 primary schools.

Hilary added: "This festival has truly been a celebration of excellent spoken word, teamwork and artistic expression not to forget the incredible hard work and dedication from the teachers and staff who have inspired and worked tirelessly with their children.

“The audience of parents, grandparents and other relatives, friends and carers have been treated to some wonderful performances.

"It must be remembered that we are talking about children from reception classes to year 6, ages 3 to 11.

"They don’t simply recite the poems, they put feelings and actions into their performances.”

There were squawking chickens, rapping grans, walking iguanas, masks, shields and full costumes.

The enthusiasm of the children is quite inspiring.

Teachers reported how the children’s participation in the festival helps to build their self confidence.

Many parents who attend the festival recall how they took part themselves when they were school children and in many cases they are still able to recite the poems they performed.

Poets range from Rudyard Kipling, Walter de la Mare and Lewis Carroll to Julia Donaldson, Michael Rosen and Spike Milligan.

Once again perennial supporters of the festival Higher Failsworth Primary were presented with two awards, The Ann Warr Trophy and The Infant Trophy.

Edwin Partridge from Rotary District presented The Ann Warr Trophy while The Worshipful Mayor of Oldham Dr Zahid Chauhan OBE, FRCGP presented The Infant Trophy.

In making the presentation, the Mayor of Oldham spoke about how good the festival is for young people.

He commented on the confidence they gain through being on stage and working as a team.

Matt Bulmer, Director of Education Early Years and Skills, presented the Audrey Carter Trophy.

Mr Bulmer congratulated all involved and said what an excellent light this Festival shines on Oldham and that he was proud of all the staff and children who have taken part.

A new trophy presented by the adjudicator, The Hilary Henderson Trophy, for outstanding contribution to the festival by a school went to Greenacres Primary School.

The President of Oldham Metro Rotary Club, Jack Wild, who brought the awards morning to a close, congratulated all the children and their teachers for some wonderful performances.

He thanked the staff of the QE Hall for all their help and our sponsors Madeleine Lindley Books, Bamford Print and Swan’s Travel, for their continued support.

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