Storytelling In Your Area - North West England: 2012 - 2015

Between 2012-2015 we organised the following multi-sensory storytelling sessions:

Springfield School, Crewe. 27/11/15

Our storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 32 children with severe or profound & multiple learning disabilities and/or severe autism spectrum disorder.

Ashgate Specialist Support Primary School, Manchester. 13/11/15

Our storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 31 children with severe or profound & multiple learning disabilities and/or severe autism spectrum disorder. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all bar two of the 31 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Fantastic interaction with the storyteller and children. Great props and sound effects."
• "Storyteller very good, encouraged the children with the sensory props. Included all the children (even H who spent the session walking around the room)."
• "I have used Bag Books in previous settings and was really pleased to have the opportunity to see them in action here at Ashgate. I am certain they will make a positive contribution to our school library and will be well used."
• "I liked the way that the storyteller repeated each line of the story for every individual child giving them plenty of time to respond. The resources were of a high quality and used great imagination. All children were included. [The Storyteller] had a lovely manner with the children and they were eager to listen to her voice and responded well to the props used."
• "[The Storyteller] was very expressive and engaged all of the children in this very difficult group to motivate. They responded really well to the multi-sensory elements of the story and [The Storyteller's] rhythmic storytelling."

Hunter Lodge Day Centre, Wigan. 09/10/15, 23/10/15, 06/11/15

There were a total of 13 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Feel more confident than thought I would do." Another commented, "I look forward to trying them with my customers. Also trying different stories."

Broadmead Day Service, Warrington. 09/10/15, 23/10/15, 06/11/15

There were a total of 12 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Very good trainer in learning story."

St Joseph’s Home, Formby. 29/10/15

There were a total of 10 adult participants and 12 trainees.

Bluebell Park, Liverpool. 18/09/15

Our storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 26 children with severe learning disabilities and/or severe autism spectrum disorder. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all 26 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Very enjoyable. After only 4 days in school for most of them, they were fantastic and enjoyed it very much. Thank you."

Silverdene Care Home, Manchester. 19/06/15, 10/07/15, 17/07/15

There were a total of 9 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Initially I thought the idea of telling a story using props was silly. However after the first session I was very impressed, and enjoyed watching the service users and colleagues participate in the activity." The other commented, "Think it is a really good idea. I feel very confident. At first I thought it was just telling a story, but it's very detailed and with lots of action. Really enjoyed the session, and all the service users enjoyed it too."

Oakdene Day Centre, Manchester. 19/06/15, 10/07/15, 17/07/15

There were a total of 15 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Really enjoyed the training and the storytelling. Feel much more confident when telling the stories."
• "I have really enjoyed this training and can't wait to get started with a group. The more practice I have I think the more confidence I will gain."
• "Was nervous at first but really enjoyed the storytelling. I'm glad I have done it."

George Hastwell School, Barrow-In-Furness. 11/06/15

Our storyteller ran eight multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 52 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from six teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and one as “4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "Children and staff really enjoyed the session. Thank you."
• "As a new member of staff I have had no experience with sensory stories - I thought it was excellent, something I could use in the classroom."
• "It was a really good session for this class."
• "Very understanding of children with complex needs. Involved all the children."
• "All children engaged with the session and really enjoyed it. Thank you."

Claire House Children's Hospice, Wirral. 06/06/15

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions with three children. The hospice staff judged that all three children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "Session went well. All the children and young people enjoyed. Thank you so much!!"

Zoë’s Place Children's Hospice, Liverpool. 06/06/15

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions with four children. The hospice staff judged that all four children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "All four children got something out of the session and thoroughly enjoyed it. Interesting for staff watching too.

Camberwell Park School, Manchester. 05/06/15

Our storyteller ran three multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 29 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all 29 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good".

Cavendish School, Runcorn. 15/05/15

Our storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 30 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all bar one of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and one as as “4/5 - Good". One added, "Thank you!"

Back Lane Care (afternoon group), Chorley. 17/04/15, 24/04/15, 01/05/15

There were a total of 13 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Very good, very detailed and good mood in room."

Back Lane Care (morning group), Chorley. 17/04/15, 24/04/15, 01/05/15

There were a total of 11 adult participants across the three sessions. There were four trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "The trainer was very good and confident which helped us to be more confident in telling the story."
• "I enjoyed the training, and was nice to see how the service users responded to the stories and each other's reaction."
• "I really enjoyed taking part in this training and was lovely to see the service users' positive reactions and enjoyment of these stories. The trainer was very positive and encouraging throughout."

Newlands School, Manchester. 25/03/15

Our storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 36 children with severe learning disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorders. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good".

Mill Green School, Newton-le-Willows. 18/03/15

Our storyteller ran three multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 14 children with severe learning disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorders. We received combined feedback on behalf of all the teachers. They judged that all the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling and rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". They added, "Absolutely fantastic! The students loved it."

Russett School, Northwich. 05/03/15

Our storyteller ran six multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 39 children with severe learning disabilitiesand/or autism spectrum disorders. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Simply lovely."
• "They really enjoyed all the session, especially the roleplay.They were totally engaged throughout and anticipation of what was happening next. Excellent session."
• "Two lovely stories which were beneficial to all our children in Class 9, due to it being tactile and sensory."
• "Very nice session that all the pupils enjoyed. I liked the variety of  multi-sensory resources and more loose ones than I remember from previous Bag Book stories."

Piper Hill Specialist Support School, Manchester. 25/02/15

Our storyteller ran three storytelling sessions with a total of 15 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all 15 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Two rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and one as “4/5 - Good". One added, "More time given to allow students to explore the objects and allow them to use the objects independently where appropriate."

Choice (Support and Transport Team), Oldham. 02/02/15, 16/02/15, 23/02/15

There were a total of 21 adult participants across the three sessions. There were five trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Very good fun. Kept people's attention and easily adaptable to suit audience."
• "Really enjoyed the storytelling. Trainer was great! Great fun had by all."
  
• "Excellent means of engaging and enthusing audience"
• "Been a really good experience, provided by a friendly and genuine person. Maybe 2 sessions would be enough instead of 3 when telling stories to certain service users."

Choice (Communication Therapy Team), Oldham. 02/02/15, 16/02/15, 23/02/15

There were a total of 11 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees: one rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good" and the other as "4/5 - Good". One added, "I am looking forward to trying the approach with people with PMLD." The other commented, "[The Storyteller] was very good at knowing how to motivate others."

Oakfield High School, Wigan. 04/02/15

Our storyteller ran four storytelling sessions with a total of 29 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and one as “4/5 - Good". One added, "Lively storytelling. Children were engaged from the outset. Even the more able were keen to take part in the activities apart from one, who eventually joined in most parts. Really impressed by deliverer's recall of learners' names! Some learners were silly during the delivery - sorry. Overall impression was very good. I can imagine this working really well with younger learners and less able ones. Thank you very much." Another commented, "All learners fully participated. Delivery of stories was excellent. Engagement was 100% throughout entire stories. The multisensory experience was a huge success. Thank you."

Elleray Park School, Wallasey. 04/02/15

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 37 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all bar one of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and two as “4/5 - Good".

Pendle View Primary School, Colne. 21/01/15

Our storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 41 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all 41 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". One added, "All the children enjoyed the Bag Books session and loved interacting with the story and the storyteller. The level was perfect for our group of children and children and staff enjoyed both stories. Thank you." Another commented, "Excellent."

Pathways to Opportunities, Oldham (morning group). 26/11/14, 03/12/14, 10/12/14

There were a total of 11 adult participants across the three sessions. There were four trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Great approach for people with LD and children (young). Simple but very effective idea."
• "Really enjoyed the sessions and was lovely to see the audience reacting to such creative yet simple activity."
  
• "Very good fun, great for service users. They really enjoyed it."

Pathways to Opportunities, Oldham (afternoon group). 26/11/14, 03/12/14, 10/12/14

There were a total of 10 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Really enjoyed it! Thank you." The other commented, "Good overall! Very enjoyable."

Millwood Primary Special School, Bury. 08/12/14

Our storyteller ran seven storytelling sessions with a total of 42 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from seven teachers who judged that 42 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All seven rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Perfect story for our children as it gives them the sensory experience that most children miss out on with "normal" books. Loved Fairground."
• "This group can spend a lot of their day obsessed with their own interests, so stories like these give them opportunities to interact with the storyteller which is what these children need. P interacted with each page, when normally he doesn't like stories."
• "Loved The Fairground. Very sensory and included all ability of children. PMLD got a lot out of the story. A & S watched every move of storyteller."
• "Perfect story for age range. Children interacted well and clearly enjoyed it - loved the pulling rope. [The Storyteller] was lovely with all the children. Lovely subtle reactions from all the children."
• "[The Storyteller] was really great with all the children - gave them all a chance to explore. T - reaching and tracking all the way through, really engaged and watching for his turn. I - loved the whistle. E - reacted to the kitten page."
• "This group loved it and sat for 30 mins engaged with all props. A - was retelling story out loud. J - really engaged. S - interacted well, loved the dodgem. A & A - squeezed each other's hand."
• "All the children tried each prop. Enjoyed the sounds - really attracted their attention."

Cromwell High School, Dukinfield. 28/11/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 37 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all bar one of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and one as “4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "[The Storyteller] engaged all pupils. R relaxed, enjoyed and joined in - it was fantastic. One pupil had to leave due to the noise of another - not because of the session. Thank you."
• "[The Storyteller] was an excellent storyteller. All pupils were able to access the story and interacted with her. Please come back."
• "Fantastic! All the class were engaged and the resources allowed the whole class to fully experience the story."
• "Student with visual impairment given time to explore props. Storytelling delivered very clearly."
• "All the pupils in this session joined the story and took part. Very good session. Would love for them to come back."

Brentwood School, Altrincham. 27/11/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 35 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all bar one of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. One rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and three as “4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "All students participated well. Students who needed help were given support. Students who could operate the props did so. All students were engaged. The story was aimed at their level. Very visual, and music to accompany the story to create the atmosphere."
• "Lovely session. All students involved."
• "All pupils engaged well with the various props. There were some definite favourites - the yellow duck and the ghost train door. It worked well to start with different pupils so although there was routine, it built in variation and flexibility."

Lisburne School, Stockport. 24/11/14

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions with a total of 43 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and one as “4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "[The Storyteller] was a lovely storyteller and made sure all of the children accessed the sensory resources. I think the resources would work even better with smaller groups but it worked very well even so."
• "Our children benefit massively from sensory stories especially linked to real life experiences. We would benefit from any future support linked to Bag Books in the future. Thank you for your time."
• "It was excellent."
• "Story beautifully told and delivered with a pace that was fast enough for the interest of the children but still slow enough for them to take it in. Each child felt included and were all able to access the session. Plenty of time given for children to explore and feel the sensory aids."
• "Fantastic session. Perfect for our sensory children."

Kidz North, Manchester. 20/11/14

Our storyteller ran storytelling sessions with a total of 31 children with severe learning disabilities.

Sir Tom Finney Community High School, Preston. 18/11/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 34 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all 34 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Very beneficial. Pupils enjoyed the stories and all interacted and participated. Some pupils communicated more than usual. This was appropriate for our P1-3 and even more so for the P4-8. They were very expressive."
• "A really good experience. [The Storyteller] related well to the students and demonstrated good practice when using Bag Books. Thank you so much."
• "Good repetition of key words/sentences. Using same actions around class - patting knees. Books easy to use. All students engaged and enjoyed both stories."
• "Good story, props. Told well - good voices. Professional. Students involved, all waited well."
• "It was a lovely opportunity to actually be able to watch each individual student response, rather than telling the story/operating the lights/passing resources around etc. [The Storyteller] had a lovely manner with all students and was still giving 100% to the story at 3pm."

Woodlands School, Blackpool. 13/10/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 35 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all bar one of the 35 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "All pupils engaged with the story really well. Watched pupils waited their turn. Length and content of the story was perfect for our children. Enjoyed by all! Thank you."
• "Lovely resources - some great responses from our pupils. Very enthusiastic storyteller!"
• "All children sat and listened carefully to the story and enjoyed participating. All children sat quietly throughout the 2 stories. Lots of fantastic ideas that could be adopted for stories in school."
• "The storyteller fully understood the children's need, the children thoroughly enjoyed the stories and sat very well."
• "The students thoroughly enjoyed the boards and there were a lot of ideas which we feel we can develop and use because the students found them tactile."

Valley School, Stockport. 29/09/14

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions with a total of 46 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from six teachers who judged that all 46 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All six rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "The storyteller communicated with each of the children and allowed plenty of time for engagement."
• "Excellent - very appropriate and children really enjoyed and benefitted from it. Great responses! Thank you very much."
  
• "A lovely story session. All the children were very engaged and responded positively."
• "All children engaged in the session for extended periods."
• "Fantastic new story. Lots of different types of experiences. All group very engaged."
• "The story was great for the whole class and would make a fabulous small session."

Derian House Children's Hospice, Chorley. 27/09/14

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions with six children. The feedback from the hospice staff judged that all of the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "The storyteller was amazing. She said hello to each child, and very quickly figured out what each individual child's likes and dislikes were with regard to their sensory experience. She was amazing to watch. Each and every child got something from the session, even children that aren't normally openly expressive showed that they enjoyed the stories and the sensory experience. As a nurse, I loved watching the children, and [the Storyteller] also talked us through how to do the sessions. It was just BRILLIANT." We subsequently received an email stating, "A very big thank you for organising the story telling session last Saturday here at Derian House. We have had absolutely terrific feedback from all the staff, everyone really enjoyed it especially our lovely children. We look forward to perhaps having more story sessions if we can secure some funding."

Heathbank, Oldham (morning group). 10/09/14, 17/09/14, 24/09/14

There were a total of 14 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "[The trainer] was very good and made me feel very comfortable with the whole process of storytelling.."
• "Really enjoyed the sessions and have seen first hand the benefits of the approach. Thank you so much for the opportunity."
  
• "I think it's brilliant. Everybody has the opportunity to interact and get involved despite their level of ability - something for everybody to enjoy."

Heathbank, Oldham (afternoon group). 10/09/14, 17/09/14, 24/09/14

There were a total of 15 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees. Two rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good" and one as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "Gave me more confidence."
• "Thoroughly enjoyed the sessions and [The Storyteller] is a great trainer. Lots of knowledge/experience. My confidence has certainly improved. Looking forward to using stories in practice.."
  
• "Really enjoyed (and becoming more confident in) storytelling. Love that everone is included."

Lansbury Bridge School, St. Helens. 15/07/14

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions with a total of 35 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from seven teachers who judged that all bar one of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All seven rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "The children enjoyed it and it was geared to their level. Able to join in all the activities. Very interactive. [The Storyteller] was very good and animated."
• "The children loved the session and were very focussed."
• "Very interactive session for the young people. All pupils really enjoyed it."
• "Very energetic - great fun!"
• "There were lots of lovely reactions from the children. The objects of reference used were very good quality and gave the children a multi-sensory experience. Age group 4-7."
• "Amazing - thank you so much. [The Storyteller] was really patient with us and all pupils thoroughly enjoyed the stories. It was really valuable to see how a pro tells the stories. Thank you."
• "Thank you for a wonderful day. Superb stories and an amazing storyteller."

Sandfield Park School, Liverpool. 27/06/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 35 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all bar two of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "[The Storyteller] was excellent - very enthusiastic and interesting. The props were very good - both visually and to touch - the pupils were interested and engaged - they focused very well. Very worthwhile and enjoyable."
• "Excellent presentation. All the pupils enjoyed the sensory aspect of the story, especially the pupils working from P3(ii) to P8. Big smiles all round. I know I would like these books for my next year's class (communication group)."
• "Children enjoyed story. Big smiles, very engaged. The children enjoyed the interaction of the story. Noticed some children come out of their shells."
• "The students really enjoyed their stories and maintained enthusiastic engagement throughout. A thoroughly entertaining and valuable session - thank you very much."

Palmerston School, Liverpool. 19/06/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 34 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all bar one of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Two rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and two as "4/5 - Good". One added, "Many thanks for your session - the class enjoyed it and found it a lovely treat." Another commented, "All pupils enjoyed the stories including P4+. Pupils with short attention spans did engage briefly but ideally would need to be in a smaller group so didn't become disengaged as storyteller moved around the group."

Windmill Day Centre, Kendal. 08/04/14, 29/04/14, 06/05/14

There were a total of 16 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Fantastic. Really enjoyed the whole experience. Given me more confidence to talk in a group."

Mill Lane Centre, Barrow-in-Furness. 08/04/14, 29/04/14, 06/05/14

There were a total of 20 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Very enjoyable training, will certainly implement it."
• "Excellent training."
  
• "Great training."

Meadowside School, Wirral. 01/04/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 31 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good" and one as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "First story - multi-sensory. Pupils enjoyed the interaction. J tolerated being touched but didn't appear to enjoy that part. He did like the sounds. H very engaged throughout. 2nd story - multi-sensory. J enjoyed "hoop a duck". L engaged throughout. All pupils in group enjoyed the session."
• "It was a great session and gave me lots of ideas to take back to lessons. Students really enjoyed the interaction."
• "The pupils enjoyed the real life objects, props and sounds that made the story more accessible."
• "Great interaction with pupils. Lots of laughter, smiles and reaction - verbally/facial reactions."

Sandside Lodge School, Ulverston. 27/03/14

Our storyteller ran four storytelling sessions with a total of 24 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all 24 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Thought the sensory boards were excellent. Story length was right. Stories were about relevant experiences (seaside, Gran visiting)."
• "Fantastic, engaging, a pleasure to see the pupils joining in - sensory interaction. Excellent please come again."
• "Excellent session. Thank you!"
• "All really enjoyed it."

James Rennie School, Carlisle. 25/03/14

Our storyteller ran four storytelling sessions with a total of 23 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good". One added, "We are the nursery/reception group. The children work on the EYFS curriculum and are between 3 and 5 years old. All of this group love story time and were enchanted by [the] storytelling." Another commented,"Good for our PMLD students and some between P4-P8 would also benefit."

Acorns Primary School, Preston. 24/03/14

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions with a total of 47 children. We received feedback from six teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All six teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Great storyteller. All the children really enjoyed it."
• "Thank you. A fun session with lots of sensory props to cater for all needs."
• "Pupils were treated in a respectful manner whilst maintaining interest in the stories. Resources were well made and imaginative."
• "Very enjoyable session. All children engaged well with stories - asked for more!"
• "[The Storyteller] very quickly formed effective communication with our pupils. One pupil (EAL) responded very positively. Impressed that [The Storyteller] knew and used Makaton. Lovely session."

Springside Primary Special School, Rochdale. 07/03/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 39 children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good".

EAM Lodge, Manchester. 20/02/14, 26/02/14

There were a total of eight adult participants across the two sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good".

Heathfield Resource Centre, Newton Heath. 13/02/14, 20/02/14, 26/02/14

There were a total of 15 adult participants across the three sessions. There were five trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Great. Gave me extra scope, opened my level of thinking and changing mindset of what is enjoyable. Loved the interaction, how it stimulated customers, and saw the benefit of repetative storytelling."
• "Very interesting. Customers were interactive, enjoyed getting involved with the stories."
• "Enjoyed the interaction with customers, telling stories in a different way."
• "[The Storyteller] was very knowledgeable and patient. She was a good role model for us when storytelling. Thank you for letting us attend."
• "Good to review different styles of storytelling today and to get some additional ideas about how to run the session."

IIC Show, Manchester. 14/02/14, 15/02/14

Our storyteller ran sessions with a total of 32 children.

Kingsbury Primary School, Skelmersdale. 29/01/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 19 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all 19 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”. One added, "A really well-told story which engaged the children effectively." Another commented, "Fantastic."

The Russett School, Northwich. 22/01/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 23 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good".

Firwood School, Bolton. 08/01/14

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 21 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good".

Elton Community Centre, Bury. 28/11/13, 05/12/13, 12/12/13

A total of nine adult participants across the three sessions. There were four trainees. Three rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good" and one as "4/5 - Good." One added, "I assumed it would be the same customers every week. I saw really good progress and response as each week went by." Another commented, "Very good reactions from the customers throughout the stories."

Sunnybank Community Centre, Bury. 28/11/13, 05/12/13, 12/12/13

A total of nine adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees. All three rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good" One added, "Brilliant experience for staff and customers. Really enjoyed the training. Can't think how it could be [improved]. It was very good." Another commented, "It's a lovely activity and can't wait to start telling stories to our customers at Wheatfields."

Eden Valley Children's Hospice, Carlisle. 30/11/13

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions with three children. No feedback was received from the hospice staff.

North Ridge High School, Manchester. 27/11/13

Our storyteller ran three storytelling sessions with a total of 13 children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all 13 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”.

Kidz Up North, Manchester. 21/11/13

Our storyteller ran sessions with a total of 10 children.

Green Lane School, Warrington. 20/11/13

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions with a total of 37 children. We received feedback from six teachers who judged that all bar one of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good” and two as "4/5 - Good". One added, "All the class benefitted from this session. Sensory approach."

Imperial War Museum North, Manchester. 13/11/13

Our Storyteller ran multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 14 children from Heaton School, Stockport and Delamere School, Manchester. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all 14 children had benefitted from the storytelling. Both rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good”. One added, "A fabulous experience for our young people."

Hope School, Wigan. 23/10/13

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 30 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”. One added, "Thank you". Another commented, "Thanks".

Redwood Secondary School, Rochdale. 09/10/13

Our storyteller ran four storytelling sessions with a total of 23 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”. One added, "Excellent session. Thank you!"

L'Arche (morning group), Liverpool. 18/09/13, 25/09/13, 02/10/13

A total of 18 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees and they all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "The interaction with the people hearing the story was brilliant!"

L'Arche (afternoon group), Liverpool. 18/09/13, 25/09/13, 02/10/13

A total of 18 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees and they all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "It's very interesting and helpful to see multi-sensory story by a professional storyteller. It was completely new for me so it had been so important to see expressions, body language and voice modulations while telling story." Another commented, "I love the whole idea of Bag Books and find it a great activity for people with learning disabilities. It was lovely to see the people to engage in the story."

Hope House Children's Hospice, Oswestry. 23/07/13

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions with four children. The feedback from the hospice staff judged that all of the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "[The Storytelling] 1 -Allowed staff to learn how to use the Bag Books effectively. 2 - It was flexible. 3 - It included the children with severe learning difficulties in a way they could participate and enjoy. 4 - It included a child with no hearing to participate and enjoy, who sat patiently and was very responsive. The children smiled, laughed, responded, and were relaxed throughout the session."

Claire House Children's Hospice, Wirral. 23/07/13

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions with seven children. The feedback from the hospice staff judged that all bar one of the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "Enthusiastic, dynamic storyteller very experienced. Quality of the story and material was fantastic! A fantastic way of telling stories which puts the sensory experience first! Our children and young people very much enjoyed it – lots of smiles and indications of enjoyment - Please come back!"

Park School, Blackpool. 17/07/13

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 35 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”.

Holly Grove School, Burnley. 11/07/13

Our storyteller ran four storytelling sessions with a total of 28 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”.

Mayfield School, Whitehaven. 14/06/13

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 34 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all 34 children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "We have similar story boxes in school. However, the children still enjoyed listening and participating in the stories."
• "Really enjoyed it. Pupils were of higher ability, but they absolutely loved the stories. They were laughing so much! Thank you!"
• "A fantastic resource suitable for all learners in my current class. All the students gained a lot from the storytelling and storyteller was brilliant with the students and able to work/support all learners. Excellent! Much recommended!"
• "Inspiring!!"
• "Our pupils were really motivated throughout the stories."

Morecambe Road School, Morecambe. 13/06/13

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 43 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”. Comments were:

• "[The Storyteller] produced a fantastic performance, that all the children really enjoyed and seemed to benefit from. [The Storyteller] was very enthusiastic and really tried to involve all the children in the activities. I would really recommend Bag Books to any children under the age of 10 or any children with additional needs e.g. dyslexia, autism etc. Thank you."
• "All the children got a lot out of the session. Enjoyed joining in."
• "Very enjoyable fun experience for the children. The autistic children in the group contributed and interacted during the session easily."
• "Brilliant! All the students were engaged and enjoyed the stories. Storyteller was very dynamic and engaging!"

Hollydale, Chorley. 17/04/13, 01/05/13, 12/06/13

A total of 14 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees and they all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Really enjoyed it. Really saw the way my team gained in confidence over the sessions. The storyteller gave excellent constructive criticism throughout and I felt supported which helped my confidence. Her tips and advice were really helpful. The packs themselves are fantastic. To have all the resources, organised and very accessible is totally essential when time is pressured within a care setting. The multi-sensory nature of the packs is really excellent for our clients."
• "Excellent training. We have put it into practice as a company and had immediate results. Really enjoyed doing it and have learnt a lot. Many many thanks. We are already using storytelling and it is planned into our day care, using the trained staff. We will also train the care staff in pairs over the next year. Service users really loved the experience."
• "Very good training. Very informative. Training excellent."

Rowandale, Chorley. 17/04/13, 01/05/13, 12/06/13

A total of 16 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Really enjoyed the three sessions. Found the stories really interesting and the service users loved it." The other commented, "I have enjoyed all of the courses and feel confident more than I ever had during these sessions. Thank you. I don't feel it could be improved as it is very effective as it is with all the service users who have attended. They have shown interest time and time again."

Lancasterian School, Manchester. 05/06/13

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 27 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good.” One added, "Really enjoyable session."

Pensby Wood Day Service, Wirral. 24/04/13, 08/05/13, 15/05/13

A total of 18 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good".

Heswall Centre, Wirral. 24/04/13, 08/05/13, 15/05/13

A total of 15 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Training has been really good. Have really enjoyed the course. Have really enjoyed the feedback and reactions from the customers." The other commented, "Very entertaining and confident by [the Storyteller]."

Dorin Park School, Chester. 25/04/13

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 30 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all bar two of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good.”

Bleasdale House School, Carnforth. 18/04/13

Our storyteller ran four storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 22 children (the school only has 22 pupils). We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good.” One added, "Wonderful. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed it." Another commented, "Very appropriate resources. Responses from all our pupils."

Delamere School, Manchester. 27/03/13

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 31 children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Two rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good." Comments were: 

• "Wonderful response from visually impaired children. Brilliant repetition to promote anticipation. Props superb."
• "With a group of 8, it would have been helpful to have more props sS that school staff could use once the storyteller had demonstrated their use. Several pupils lost attention while waiting, also over repetitive for some pupils."
• "All the children really enjoyed the session and got a lot out of the session. All the children would find the session beneficial."

Oakfield High School, Wigan. 20/03/13

Our storyteller ran four storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 24 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good.” One added, "Excellent session. All the learners were fully engaged and really enjoyed themselves." Another commented, "All the learners found this session extremely useful."

Chatsworth High School, Salford. 18/03/13

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 32 children with severe learning disabilities and/or autistic spectrum disorder. We received feedback from six teachers who judged that all bar one of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Five rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good."

Stockport Skills Group, Stockport. 30/01/13, 27/02/13, 13/03/13

A total of 23 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "I found the training very motivating and fun. The stories are easy to follow and fun. Everyone listening to the storytelling seemed to be enjoying and involved as much as possible. As a new storyteller I can understand the importance of each sentence being repeated to each individual person." The other commented, "Lots of movement and speech. Members really enjoyed it. Very well produced."

Trafford Skills Group, Urmston. 30/01/13, 27/02/13, 13/03/13

A total of 15 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "It's a brilliant sensory experience for our clients." The other commented, "I felt much more confident this time after practicing."

Red Marsh School, Thornton Cleveleys. 06/03/13

Our Storyteller ran sessions to a total of 49 children. We received combined feedback on behalf of all the teachers who judged that all bar two of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. No rating was given.

The Coppice School, Preston. 19/11/12

Our Storyteller ran seven sessions to a total of 47 children. We received feedback from seven teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All seven rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Comments were:

• “We all enjoyed your visit and it has provided us with inspiration and ideas. We are a "signing" school and I wondered if you had considered incorporating signing into your storytelling. I think some key word signing would support children's understanding/experiences even further. However, we really enjoyed the stories - thank you.”
• “The children really enjoyed the session and most were engaged for the majority of the time. Even though it was a largish group, it did help to practise the skills of listening, waiting, and turn-taking for the more able children. I would recommend having more than one of each prop so that staff can also support the children with them and children are waiting for less time. Either that, or perhaps do the story with a smaller group. It did inspire us to talk about making our own resources and making up our own stories so very helpful!”
• "All my class enjoyed the storytelling and were engaged. The resources were attractive and appropriate. We would welcome [the Storyteller] back any time.” 
• “Fun activity, well presented with the children interested and involved.”
•  “This particular class has five ASD pupils – [the Storyteller] engaged all the pupils. One particular pupil who I though would be the least engaged, actually participated brilliantly.”
• “The students in my class thoroughly enjoyed it and it was a very age appropriate story. However one young man was not keen on supporting England (we had the football story) as he supports Scotland!”
• “All of our class members enjoyed the story. They responded to the repetition style of story by anticipating what was coming next. Very exciting! They were relaxed enough to engage, touch and speak to the Storyteller as she worked with them. They enjoyed helping each other explore the story pages (more able children helped other children needing more support). Staff got some lovely ideas for our sensory stories too! Thank you.”

Princes Primary School, Liverpool. 31/10/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 40 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that 87% of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one as “4/5 – Good”. Comments were:

• “Thank you. Children had so much fun. Resources were good and varied.”
• “I had a group of 8 low ability pupils - p.m. - aged 6-7. As they were unable to sit for long periods of time I feel that a smaller group in a distraction free environment would be ideal. Thank you for the session - reader was very good.”
• “Excellent . Children really enjoyed it. Really interactive and fun!!”
• “Smaller groups may have worked better.”
• “[The Storyteller] was very flexible with our children's need. The children sustained concentration for a longer period of time than usual. It was a very personalised session as the children were greeted by name and their attention was gained by using their first names. A lovely and enjoyable session.”

Dee Banks School , Chester. 19/06/12

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 31 children. We received a combined feedback on behalf of all the teachers. They judged that all the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. They rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”.

Sandgate School, Kendal. 08/03/12

Our storyteller ran five storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 29 children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. One teacher rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good” and two as "4/5 - Good".

The Loyne School, Lancaster. 06/03/12

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions during the day and they involved a total of 30 children. We received feedback from six teachers who judged that all bar one of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All six teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”.

Red Marsh School, Thornton-Cleveleys. 05/03/12

Our storyteller ran six storytelling sessions involving a total of 45 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 - Very Good”. One commented, “[The Storyteller] was fantastic. Everyone enjoyed it. Fabulous.” Another added, “The storyteller captured all of the children's interest. They all thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you.”

Springfield School, Liverpool. 28/02/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions with a total of 31 children involved. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five teachers rated the sessions as “5/5 - Very Good”. One added, “Good short session - 2 enjoyable interactive stories, with good repetition. Pupils with short attention spans remained interested.” Another commented, "Excellent session, all children really enjoyed it.

Tor View School, Rossendale. 23/02/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions with a total of 37 children involved. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five teachers rated the sessions as “5/5 - Very Good”.

Elms Bank School, Bury. 22/02/12

Our Storyteller ran three sessions with a total of 21 children involved. No feedback was received.

Pendle Community High School and College, Nelson. 21/02/12

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 36 participating children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all the children had benefitted from the storytelling and all rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good”. One added, “That was FANTASTIC!! Thank you!”

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