A visit from a writer, poet or illustrator to a school or library can be an immensely rewarding experience for all involved. For inspiration and a list of the benefits of an author visit, please read below.
Careful thought and planning are essential to ensure everyone gets the most out of the experience. The following guidelines and suggestions are given in the hope they will be of benefit to all those involved in organising an author visit.
Why host an author visit?
For pupils
- improve literacy
- encourage reading for pleasure
- inspire reluctant readers
- enthuse pupils in their own writing
- give confidence
- broaden knowledge of literature
- allow pupils to meet a favourite author
- provide an opportunity for children to ask questions
For teachers
Author visits also have a positive impact on teachers who can gain professionally and personally from the experience, providing:
- new insights into literature
- new methods for encouraging pupil engagement
- renewed enthusiasm for promoting reading for pleasure
For the curriculum
Author visits are complementary to the National Curriculum, they can be used to:
- fit into a scheme of work
- generate a new scheme of work
- tick National Curriculum boxes (e.g. research and editing)
For the school
Author visits can be beneficial to the image of a school and can:
- be part of a programme of events (e.g. World Book Day)
- generate positive publicity
- have a favourable impression on Ofsted
“These and many more reasons can prompt the organisation of an author visit. Asking what you hope to achieve at the outset will help you to shape the visit and ensure you get what you want from it.”
Who, what, where, how?
Once you know why you want to have an author visit you can start to plan and research. We recommend starting to plan 6 to 12 months in advance as experienced authors are in demand and will be booked up quickly.
What type of author?
Authors often specialise in writing books for a particular age group so make sure the author will be suitable for your intended class(es) or year(s).
What type of visit?
What do you want your author to offer? Different authors will offer different types of events, ranging from simple readings with Q&As to interactive workshops or drama sessions. Should the session cover aspects of the curriculum? To avoid any misunderstandings discuss with the author the needs and expectations of your school and confirm any specifications in advance.
Who will your audience(s) be?
How many people do you wish the author to see during the day? Do they offer small workshops or large-scale presentations?
Recommendations
Does an author come recommended by colleagues, local library services or local book groups? If possible speak to others who have organised a visit to get suggestions.
Availability
Big name authors are usually booked up years in advance and some do not undertake school visits. Even lesser known authors can be booked up six to nine months in advance, especially around times of National Book Week, World Book Day, Empathy Day etc.
Fees
The negotiation of fees is a matter for individuals. Authors will have different rates, depending on their personal circumstances. Be sure to check an author’s rates in advance of making a booking and ensure that they have adequate public liability insurance in place.
