Planning was essential to ensure everything ran smoothly. We engaged the school leadership team early to avoid scheduling conflicts and secure support for the event. A collaborative approach made all the difference.
Key questions we asked during the planning stage included:
- Was the whole school community aware of the event?
- Was the chosen month a good time to host it?
- Who would write the script—students, library staff, or both?
- How many participants did we expect?
- Did we have a marketing strategy to generate excitement?
Advertising ahead of time was crucial to generate buzz and maximise participation.
Having everything documented, double-checked, and confirmed was crucial. We started our final preparations two to three weeks in advance, allowing time for adjustments. As the saying goes, “time planned is time saved.” However, despite our efforts, on December 6th, I realised I had forgotten to budget for refreshments! Thankfully, with quick teamwork, we resolved the problem, and the event carried on without a hitch.
During
On the day of the event, we welcomed participants warmly and encouraged them to feel free to express themselves. Doing so was at the heart of the event. Having a prepared schedule ensured structure and calm, but maintaining flexibility allowed the audience to reflect in the moment and encouraged participants to interact in a way that shaped a positive and empathetic atmosphere in the café.
The Poetry Café Menu
As this event was hosted in a café — our library, of course — what better way to present the event than with a menu? The theme for the event was gratitude, focusing on people who have made a positive impact on our lives. Here’s what was “served” creatively at our Primary event:
- “Mr. Right” by Kenn Nesbitt, shared by Sofia, a Grade 3 student who couldn’t attend but wanted her chosen poem included.
- “Precious Pets,” a collaborative poem by Grade 5 students Lea, Louisa, Binta, Jennifer, and Alexandra.
- “The Four Candles,” attributed to an unknown author.
- Stories I shared about my mum, highlighting the importance of pursuing one’s dreams.
Alongside our spoken word, “substance,” we served cookies, juice and tea which kept everyone nourished, both body and soul! Thank goodness spotting the need for snacks happened during planning—what’s a café without something delicious to enjoy?
And our young writers did not disappoint. Here is an excerpt from “Precious Pets” by our budding Grade 5 poets: