Felpham students have fun with The Bard

The 15 pupils spent three days with the college's writer in residence studying The Tempest.

Patrick Ryan provided essential information about The Bard's play through his expert story-telling skills and his extensive knowledge about monsters, power and revenge and kings.

The 13 and 14-year-old students took part in games which enabled them to see the fun in Shakespeare and added to their understanding of the play. The specialist sessions resulted from Felpham's status as one of only nine schools around England in the National Writers for Schools in Education project.

NAWE co-ordinator for the college and English teacher, Nicky Narburgh said the event was all about breaking down the barriers which could surround Shakespeare's work.

"You present students with Shakespeare and they feel like they are facing a brick wall.

"The language is hard and I wanted Pat to work with me to show that Shakespeare can be fun," she stated.

The group of students ended the three days with Mr Ryan by performing The Tempest in small groups.

Their time with him has also helped them prepare for their SAT tests.

The writers' project is in its second year out of three at the college. It provides a different experience to the usual classrooms.

Students take part in various activities and have time to develop their thinking skills.