Telford primary pupils dress up pumpkins as favourite literary characters for Halloween

Children at a Telford primary school have been getting in the Halloween spirit, with a literary twist.

Pupils at Sir Alexander Fleming Primary School in Sutton Hill have been showing their passion for reading by transforming pumpkins into their favourite book characters.

As part of the school's reading celebrations, pupils and their families carved, painted and decorated pumpkins inspired by well-known stories and characters as Halloween nears.

A range of literary favourites featured on the children’s pumpkins, including Elmer the Patchwork Elephant, Room on the Broom and The Chronicles of Narnia.

Katie Reese, the deputy headteacher with early years and key stage 1 responsibility, said: “As a school, we are aware of the growing research showing that many children are developing a dislike of reading.

“We are passionate about inspiring a love of books because we know that when children enjoy reading, they choose to do it more often.

“Reading is the key to unlocking success across the curriculum and beyond. Confident readers can achieve anything they set their minds to.”

The school has around 360 pupils in total, with 60 on average in each year group.

Next month the school will open its new library for the children.

The school is hoping to welcome authors for the special opening, including local writer Roy Bradshaw and Eloise Williams, a former Children's Laureate Wales.

Continuing to talk about the children’s literary-inspired pumpkin carving, Ms Reese said: “We created this competition to combine the excitement of the pumpkin season with our love of reading. The response has been fantastic.

“Children have been talking about books, recommending stories to one another and sharing their favourite characters through their creative pumpkin designs.

“This rich discussion around books will undoubtedly help to develop their vocabulary, comprehension and wider literacy skills.

“We also hope it encourages more reading at home, as families read together, discuss favourite stories and find inspiration for future books to enjoy.

“The competition has sparked meaningful book talk across the school community, and both the pumpkins and the books that inspired them have been celebrated and shared by staff and pupils alike.”