On Friday 2nd October, students, authors and teachers gathered to celebrate the launch of Popcorn and Oranges, a published anthology featuring poems and short stories by 85 young writers from Laurus Trust secondary schools.
Over the course of a year, students took part in the First Story elective, working alongside three professional authors through the First Story Young Writers programme. Exploring poetry and storytelling, they developed their writing skills and creativity before seeing their work published in Popcorn and Oranges.
Throughout the programme, students drafted, refined and shared their work, developing both their confidence and their individual voices.
The launch event at Cheadle Hulme High School was a fitting celebration of their achievements. Bringing together young writers from across the Trust, the event saw students take to the stage to read extracts from their published poems and short stories.
Guests also heard from the three professional writers who had guided students throughout the programme. Reflecting on the journey from first draft to publication, they praised the imagination, courage and originality demonstrated by the young writers.
Hannah Smith, Trust Director of English, said:
“I’m so proud of our young writers. The writing in Popcorn and Oranges has everything – some pieces are profoundly moving, whilst others are so witty they’ll make you laugh out loud. All of them express our students’ individual voices and creativity.
“At the heart of the project was the idea that everyone has a story to tell, and it’s great to see the different ways our students have taken this idea and run with it. At the Laurus Trust, we know the importance of creative writing and its power to create connection. From reading the anthology, it’s clear that the future of writing is in very safe hands.”
For the 85 students involved, having their work published marks an important milestone in their writing journeys. Popcorn and Oranges captures a remarkable range of perspectives and experiences. Through First Story, they were given the opportunity to discover the power of their own voices, while experiencing the entire creative process from initial idea to finished publication.
AL Elevation played a pivotal role in supporting the First Story elective. Through their generous support, students were able to work closely with professional writers and access the resources and expertise needed to develop their work to the highest standard.
The launch of Popcorn and Oranges provided a wonderful celebration of a year of creativity and collaboration. We look forward to seeing future students continue to develop their craft and share their stories.