Pupils from the Cwrt Sart group are pictured with Alan Durant
A project that aims to improve literary skills amongst boys has been reaping rewards.
48 boys from four comprehensive schools across Neath Port Talbot have been working exclusively with four distinguished creative writers on a ‘Read a Million Words Together’ project.
This unique project is funded by Basic Skills Cymru and works specifically with 11 and 12 year old boys who may need extra help with their literary skills.
The schools taking part are Cymer Afan, Cwrt Sart, Glanafan and Cwmtawe.
The writers are Michael Harvey, Alan Durant, Phil Bowen and Phil Carradice.
Neath Port Talbot Council’s library service has teamed up with the four schools to tackle a creative writing project. Twelve boys took part in each school.
Called Twelve Boys Tell, each project was led by one of the writers. They set about creating pieces of literature such as storytelling, poetry, short stories and monologues.
All aimed to engage the boys and improve their literary levels and foster a greater appreciation of reading.
The work produced by the boys will go into a book next year and will contribute to a conference addressing issues around literacy.
Council Leader, Ali Thomas, has praised teachers and library staff for working together to improve literacy in the future.
“Twelve Boys Tell has been a unique opportunity for the boys to work with some of the best writers and storytellers.
“The interaction between the boys has been amazing and goes a long way to breaking down perceived problems with boys at this age.
“There is a lot of talent in Neath Port Talbot and I look forward to seeing how these boys develop in the years to come.”
