Storytelling In Your Area - West Midlands: 2012 - 2014

Between 2012-2014 we organised the following multi-sensory storytelling sessions:

Wendron Centre, Bromsgrove. 31/10/14, 07/11/14, 14/11/14

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, "I really enjoyed the training. It's a fun idea and looking forward to presenting to everyone." Another commented, "I feel it has gone really well. Our service users are happy and laughing throughout, anticipating what happens next, and remembering from previous sessions. It is an activity we will regularly use and thoroughly enjoy."

Amber Support Services, Bromsgrove. 31/10/14, 07/11/14, 14/11/14

There were a total of 7 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". One added, "Need to know more about build a Bag Book."

Rocklands School, Lichfield. 13/11/14

Our Storyteller ran eight storytelling sessions with a total of 50 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from seven teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All seven rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Their comments were:

• "Really good for the level of our children. Our children really loved the stories."
• "The children were all engaged and involved. The group size of 6 was perfect and gave them all the opportunity to take part without waiting too long. The story sacks were very well suited for the level of children who took part."
• "Just the right level! Our children have short concentration spans and limited understanding and all of them were involved and showed pleasure - thank you!"
• "Fabulous - our autistic children were very interested and the storyteller was very calm and had a good way with the children. Thank you."
• "Has given me some good ideas to incorporate into my storytelling."
• "Children found it really fun, all engaged, encaptured by stories, anticipating what was next, they requested more stories and listened throughout."
• "Children really enjoyed session and joined in. Lots of smiles and laughter."

Harborne Day Centre, Birmingham. 03/10/14, 17/10/14, 06/11/14

There were a total of 13 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".

Victoria College, Birmingham. 03/10/14, 17/10/14, 06/11/14

There were a total of 27 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees. One rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good" and two as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "The students responded really well to it."
• "Enjoyed the session as we took part."
• "The resources were excellent quality and very appropriate to the story."

Cranmer Day Services, Wolverhampton. 11/09/14, 18/09/14, 25/09/14

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". Their comments were:

• "I found confidence and fun through Bag Books. I have found the people I support thoroughly enjoy to listen and engage in a Bag Book. I found the training was delivered really well and really enjoyed being involved as training is often boring."
• "Stories can be inclusive for everyone, good ideas. Really enjoyed stories, has sparked ieas for creating my own stories."
• "Enjoyed the whole experience of Bag Books. I look forward to participating in the storytellnig for the people we support."

Rugeley Community Centre, Rugeley. 11/09/14, 18/09/14, 25/09/14

There were a total of 11 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "I think it was really good and the listeners really enjoyed the session." The other commented, "Really enjoyed experience. Our people thoroughly enjoyed the stories."

Hope House Childrens' Hospice, North Oswestry. 23/09/14

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions with a total of two children as part of our 21st Birthday - National Multi-Sensory Storytelling Day.

Oakwood School, Walsall. 23/09/14

Our Storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 32 children with severe learning disabilities as part of our 21st Birthday - National Multi-Sensory Storytelling Day. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Their comments were:

• "Wonderful - the children have thoroughly enjoyed the whole experience. Even one little boy who sometimes holds back a little!"
• "This small group coped well in a different room and all participated to the best of their abilities due to the enthusiasm of the storyteller. Thank you."
• "The storyboards are fantastic. Such an attractive resource. Our pupils want to reach out for them immediately."
• "The children all enjoyed the session. It catered for a range of abilities and everyone was engaged. The range of resources were really good. All of the group followed the story. The storyteller was very good with the children - he recognised those that just wanted to listen and not be physically involved."

Sherbrook Primary School, Cannock. 23/09/14

Our Storyteller ran three storytelling sessions with a total of 25 children with severe learning disabilities as part of our 21st Birthday - National Multi-Sensory Storytelling Day. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all of 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”. One added, "The children enjoyed the individual activities of the stories and showed great excitement and enthusiasm." Another commented, "Pupils enjoyed a range of sensory experiences. The Storyteller took his time with each pupil as they experienced each page of the story."

Mayfield School, Birmingham. 14/07/14

Our Storyteller ran four storytelling sessions with a total of 22 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Their comments were:

• “Brilliant interaction with pupils. [The Storyteller] recognised individual students needs and adapted his storytelling. Children laughed and reached out to boards, really enjoying the Bag Books! [The Storyteller] took pupils for an extra story. Thank you! From all of Green Class.”
• “Great stories and great interactions with the children. Very considerate of the needs of all the children.”
• "Lovely session."
• "Lovely session - all students benefited."

Beaufort School, Birmingham. 03/07/14

Our Storyteller ran six storytelling sessions with a total of 46 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all bar three 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”. Their comments were:

• “Pupils P4 and below really enjoyed the stories. They were very engaged with the stories and enjoyed the objects with the story. Pupils enjoyed and waited to touch the objects. They liked exploring the objects. [The Storyteller] engaged really well with all pupils and adults too.  [The Storyteller] was very welcoming to all children. P5 and above reacted very well to the stories and joined in with [The Storyteller].”
• “The children enjoyed listening to the story and joining in using various equipment and objects provided by the storyteller. It was age appropriate, tactile and provided learning, i.e.  counting experiences/musical instruments, touchy feely items. Storyteller kept the children's attention and made them laugh.”
• "Fantastic ideas of sensory stories enjoyed by all children - lots of smiles and laughter from children. Appealed to all senses. Could do with more props to speed story up and ensure all children engaged at all times. Could do with more drama/acting. Great - thank you!"

The Fountains High School, Burton-Upon-Trent. 06/06/14

Our Storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 24 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from one teacher. They judged that all of the children in their class had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling and rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”.

Ashby House, Nuneaton. 30/04/14, 07/05/14, 04/06/14

There were a total of 7 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good".

Gosford Community Hub, Coventry. 30/04/14, 07/05/14, 04/06/14

There were a total of 14 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "This has really inspired me and I enjoy telling the stories a lot." The other commented, "It is lovely to see service users engaged and happy. [The Storyteller] was an excellent tutor and gave us praise and constructive criticism. Really fun!"

Horton Lodge Community Special School, Leek. 07/05/14

Our Storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 22 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all of the children in their class had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling and both rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. One added, “Children were alert and interested. A new experience and an activity delivered by someone different. Some interesting resources.” Another commented, “Some interesting and well-presented resources. We use sensory stories with children with complex needs. Our delivery is quite different incorporating music/taste/smell/kinaesthetic/proprioception.”

Severndale Academy, Monkmoor Campus, Shrewsbury. 06/05/14

Our Storyteller ran five storytelling sessions with a total of 29 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all bar one of the children had benefited from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good". Their comments were:

• “Very engaging for pupils.”
• “The objects related to the story were very engaging and the children really enjoyed exploring them. It was really good that every child got to explore every object but sometimes there was a lot of waiting whilst other children explored objects and they lost interest intermittently. A great range of sensory objects that helped the children to engage with the story. It was fantastic to see the children engaging with the story in this way, it continued work that we are doing in class. Lots of assessment opportunities and some great new ideas.”
• “All of our students enjoyed the story and being able to participate in it too. They enjoyed the multi-sensory aspects which kept them focussed throughout.”
• “Students working at P4 showed anticipation of their turn by looking at storyteller working with previous student. The Fairground was very visual and interactive and lovely responses from all students.”
• “Lovely session. All pupils in my group paid attention to the session and focussed for short periods of time on the objects and storytelling. There were brilliant responses, for example, laughing, smiling, bouncing up and down in wheelchairs. (All pupils in this session were profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD)).”

Two Rivers High School, Tamworth. 04/04/14

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 24 children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Comments were:

• “Fantastic fun session enjoyed by all! Well worth having in school.”
• “Had 3 stories. Particularly liked the Fairground and Haircut. Our pupils responded well to stories and shared engagement.”
• “Really lovely reactions from the children. They were very engaged.”
• “[The Storyteller was] lovely with pupils.”

Saxon Hill School, Lichfield. 01/04/14

Our Storyteller ran seven storytelling sessions with a total of 45 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from five of the teachers. They 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:

• “It was fab - thank you!”
• “The children all responded very well to the storyteller. Engaged with the sensory aspects presented at each part of the story.”
• “A great experience for adults and pupils. Fab ideas to use in our own storytelling. Thanks.”

Kidz in the Middle, Coventry. 28/03/14

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions with a total of 40 children.

Regency High School, Worcester. 07/03/14

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

• "Students very responsive and seemed to enjoy session, as well as the staff! More sessions like this please!"
• "Very nice session. Great interactions with students. Thanks."
• "Lovely session. The children were so engaged and focused."

Old Hall School, Walsall. 05/03/14

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 46 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "Bag Books are very suitable for PMLD pupils - lovely resource."
• "The class responded very well to the storytelling. There was a variety of resources. The children laughed and had so much fun. It was very interactive and kept the children focused throughout. The class would definitely benefit from more sessions like this. Thank you. Loved the sensory element. Focused children. Were given time to respond. Staff were included - everyone was involved."
• "The session for my PMLD group was excellent. The story was told at their pace with pages repeated particularly well. Time was given for the most able pupil to interact independently. I was very pleased with the session and would recommend the storyteller to another school or group as I could see that he was adapting the story to the group's needs."
• "Lovely resources and storyteller captured and sustained all the pupils' interest."

Acorns Children's Hospice, Birmingham. 17/02/14

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions involving a total of four children. The hospice staff judged that all four children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "[It was good] that somebody else came in and told a story [as it took the] pressure from staff. Something different in the hospice."

Acorns Children's Hospice, Worcester. 17/02/14

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions involving a total of three children. The hospice staff judged that all three children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "The repetition and interaction with the individual child was so very inclusive. We started with individual sessions and then had a group session."

High Flyers - Pegasus House, Wombourne. 09/01/14, 30/01/14, 13/02/14

There were a total of 18 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "I think that is is a wonderful concept and look forward to telling a few stories!"
• "It was very interesting to see how the students reacted during the storytelling - depending on their varied abilities."
• "I found the training very helpful as I now feel confident to tell the story to our members."

The Pines School, Birmingham. 10/02/14

Our Storyteller ran seven sessions involving a total of 55 children with autistic spectrum disorder. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. One rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and four as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "The child working at P3 is quite difficult to engage in some literacy activities, however, he was very interested and motivated by both stories! Fantastic to see. Thank you!!"
• "Less able pupils responded to repetition. Resources were appropriate and well used."
• "Children engaged well - we do use Bag Books in our class so they are familiar with the resources i.e. waiting etc. The children always respond well to "outside providers" - thank you."

The Severns, Wellington. 09/01/14, 16/01/14, 30/01/14

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". One added, "Nicely paced, excellent training, robust materials. (Compact packaging) - good comedic content."

Baskerville School, Birmingham. 22/01/14

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 29 children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all 29 children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and two as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "Excellent interaction with students throughout the story."
• "Helped us to reflect on our curriculum and how it could be adapted to suit."
• "Every student was engaged and participated. It was a great session and they all sustained their engagement for the whole 30 minutes. It was brilliantly matched to our group."

Wilson Stuart School, Birmingham. 22/01/14

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 46 children. We received feedback from six teachers. They judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All six rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Comments were:

• "The session was enjoyed by some of the lower ability pupils. They enjoyed feeling, smelling and looking at the various resources that went around the group. The storyteller was interesting to listen to and used a good tone of voice."
• "All the children really enjoyed the sensory story, they loved the touching, feeling and smelling of the resources. It really engaged them."
• "It was a very mixed group and I think it benefitted the lower ability children more - but all of them enjoyed it."
• "[The Storyteller] was very calm and energetic. She gave all the children time to explore the boards."
• "Excellent. Storyteller was really engaging with the children. She persevered with child who was sleeping and also non-tactile children and they all responded very positively towards storyteller! Brilliant!"
• "The use of sensory and interactive stimulation worked really well with our students, which was proven by the excellent responses that were observed. All of the students were fully engaged. The method of remembering verbatim the story and repeating the key phrase linked to objects of reference was an example of outstanding practice and was key to the story of the day being well understood. We all loved it. Thanks."

Penn Fields School, Wolverhampton. 10/01/14

Our Storyteller ran seven sessions involving a total of 48 children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all bar two of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and two as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "Great idea - children's response was lovely - super to see them so engaged and laughing with delight. Thank you."
• "The storyteller was very good. The children felt very calm and safe. The children laughed all the way through. Great experience."
• "The pupils in the group thoroughly enjoyed the storytelling session. The pupils talked about the Haircut story afterwards back in class, especially when [the Storyteller] put the bald wig onto their heads and they saw themselves. Thank you."

The Severns, Wellington. 27/11/13, 04/12/13, 11/12/13

There were a total of 21 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".Comments were:

• "The Bag Books training was a fun way to learn service users and staff all enjoyed it."
• "Really enjoyed the 3 weeks. Learnt a lot and had 3 weeks of fun."
• "Really had fun learning Bag Books. Recommend it to all."
• "Very enjoyable - meets needs of a variety of users."

Halesfield, Telford. 27/11/13, 04/12/13, 11/12/13

There were a total of 24 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees. One rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good" and two as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "I observed that all service users engaged and appeared to enjoy themselves."
• "Thoroughly enjoyed the training and the experience of Bag Books. Will enjoy implementing the storytelling."
• "Listeners really enjoyed the Bag Book stories. They are keen to participate in telling and representing the stories in the future."

Broadmeadow Nursery, Wolverhampton. 14/11/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 45 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all bar two of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. One rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and three as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "Wonderful session for all children, in particular four children were very engaged during the story. So we stayed for another. Thank you."
• "The children enjoyed the stories and all interacted well, maybe could have used some of the lights to set the atmosphere."
• "The children with sensory needs really enjoyed and engaged with the stories. Other children may be more engaged if the pace was slightly faster/not all children to feel the resources."

Ridgeway Special School, Warwick. 06/11/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 42 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Comments were:

• "The children engaged with the stories and liked them."
• "Our children really enjoyed the sensory experience of the Bag Books. They sat well and loved feeling the textures, hearing the sounds and smelling. The storyteller was able to capture attention and make everyone feel comfortable. A very valuable experience."
• "Very engaged children and staff. Loved the interaction with [The Storyteller]."

RAF Museum, Cosford. 05/11/13

Our Storyteller ran multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 13 children from Overley Hall School, Wellington, Shropshire and The Bridge School, Telford. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the storytelling. One rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good” and the other as "4/5 - Good". One added, "The Storyteller was excellent and expressive giving each individual student time to look and touch each page. [The Storyteller] also remembered all students names when giving them a turn. Listened to three stories. Really enjoyable for both students and staff." The other commented, "Best Time To Live may be better for older PMLD/SLD pupils. Really liked the Fairground and football story, which engaged pupils and they liked the props!"

Overley Hall School, Wellington. 31/10/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 23 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "The students were very interested in the story told, storyteller kept their interest throughout. Much more for the young people to see the story. Helps their imagination. All the students joined in. Thank you."
• "Good performance. Children seemed to be interested."
• "Very enjoyable, the children interacted well."

Brooke School, Rugby. 25/10/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 35 children. We received feedback from three teachers. They judged that all 35 children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Comments were:

• "Very good afternoon and a lovely end to the week. I have used these books before with different groups, however it is always good to see someone else using them."
• "The children enjoyed two stories and were engaged throughout. The repetition and props were beneficial for stage of children. They loved the multi-sensory props! Thank you."
•  "Really good interaction with children. Right level for the children. Well done. Very sensory and interactive."

Vale of Evesham School, Evesham. 21/10/13

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 22 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. One added, "Fantastic storytelling. Kids love it." Another commented, "Lovely demonstration of the Bag Books. It was interesting to see how you repeated the line for each pupil."

Coventry Transport Museum. 01/10/13

Our Storyteller ran multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 6 children from Baginton Fields School, Coventry. We received feedback from the teacher who judged that all of the children in their class had benefitted from the storytelling and who rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good”. They added, "We all enjoyed the stories - all pupils joined in. Thank you."

The Woodsetton School, Dudley. 24/09/13

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 17 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Two rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and two as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "Great use of props. The children enjoyed them."
• "Use of props was really good, but feel that for this particular group, they may have engaged more if they were perhaps sat on the floor, on cushions with the storyteller."
• "Good use of props. Children really enjoyed it."
•  "Fab props! Thank you! The children loved it!"

Feckenham Road, Birmingham. 03/09/13, 10/09/13, 17/09/13

There were a total of 12 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Nice easy stories that will become established favourites. Very inclusive for people with any level of disability and it's fun! The predictability of the stories is great too."

Halcyon Day Centre, Birmingham. 03/09/13, 10/09/13, 17/09/13

There were a total of 19 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Found the training very enjoyable and feel that the service users will really enjoy the stories and will be beneficial for service users to get involved with." The other commented, "[The Storyteller/Trainer] is a very good tutor for Bag Books. Feel very confident to do stories on my own now. Felt the service users will benefit from Bag Books. Thank you."

Acorns Children's Hospice, Walsall. 07/08/13

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions involving a total of 8 children. The hospice staff judged that all the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "The storytelling was lively, happy, jolly, child friendly and easy to follow."

Donna Louise Children's Hospice, Stoke on Trent. 07/08/13

Our Storyteller ran storytelling sessions involving a total of 3 children. The hospice staff judged that all the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "The reader was enthusiastic and engaged well with the children and the staff."

KEF Summer Camp at Oswestry School, Oswestry. 01/08/13

Our Storyteller ran three sessions involving a total of 32 children. We received feedback from three teachers. They judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Two rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one as "4/5 – Good". Comments were:

• "Unbelievable! All the children loved sensory storytime! I'm so amazed! They all sat nicely, behaved and listened to every word. They couldn't stop smiling and laughing! The counsellors even enjoyed it! Lol! Thank you so much! PS The patience and care shown for every child was exceptional!"
• "There were some children today whom I have never seen smile as they did during the session. Thank you so much!"
• "The children in this group all enjoyed the one-on-one contact as the storyteller went around although some couldn't follow the actual storyline at all. Thank you!"

Middlehurst School (Heathfield), Stoke-on-Trent. 12/07/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 34 children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Comments were:

• "The children were engrossed, enjoyed the experience."
• "The experience of the storyteller was fantastic, all of the children were engaged and laughing throughout. The Rainbows class really enjoyed their experience, and went back to school with big smiles on their faces. Brilliant experience. Thank you very much."
• "It was presented in a multi-sensory manner and all of my KS1 pupils found it beneficial."
• "Lovely stories, suitable for all ages. Good to see real objects that students interact with. Liked the way the words were repeated to each child, some joined in. Good for waiting and turn taking. Lovely session would recommend service to anyone. Good pace! Lots of fun!"
• "Lots of ideas. Lots of interaction and magic moments."

Springfield Community Special School, Leek. 02/07/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 42 children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all bar one of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and two as "4/5 – Good". Comments were:

• "Children enjoyed the session. They enjoyed the props."
• "Very good for the children due to being quite interactive and being able to feel lots of things kept them very engaged."
• "Bag Books - The idea to involve all the children throughout the whole story excellent idea, keep the children's interest. Hands on - fab. Repetition good."
• "Very good storyteller - adjusted it to the children's level."
• " Most children loved the interactive resources. Storyteller drew the children into the story. Story came to life, children were able to gain a good understanding of the story."

Swan House, Birmingham. 22/05/13, 03/06/13, 27/06/13

There were a total of 15 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees and both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Once I gained my confidence I found telling the story very easy" Another commented, "Enjoyed doing the stories and service users enjoy interaction with staff."

Bevis House, Birmingham. 22/05/13, 03/06/13, 27/06/13

There were 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, "Really enjoyable - pleased with results e.g. service user interaction and how well they appeared to enjoy it."

Sunfield School, Stourbridge. 25/06/13

Our Storyteller ran eight sessions involving a total of 29 children. We received combined feedback from the teachers. They judged that all 29 children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and added, "Thank you for a lovely day of storytelling. Very beneficial for and enjoyed by all."

The Brier School, Brierley Hill. 23/05/13

Our Storyteller ran three sessions involving a total of 20 children. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Both rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”.

Langley School, Sutton Coldfield. 02/05/13

Our Storyteller ran eight sessions involving a total of 47 children. We received feedback from seven teachers. They judged that all the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and three as "4/5 – Good". Comments were:

• "All of the children in our class/group really enjoyed the session. One of our children said "I loved the stories." Lovely resources made the stories come alive."
• "Excellent concept; children all thoroughly enjoyed the session. Definitely gave us ideas for using in the classroom."
• "Fab session. Thank you. I think certain pupils in each class across the school would benefit from the story sessions. The small groups certainly helped."

Rowden House School, Bromyard. 01/05/13

Our Storyteller ran three sessions involving a total of 12 children. We received feedback from three teachers. They judged that all 12 children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. One rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and two as "4/5 – Good". One added, "Well planned. Well executed. Thoroughly enjoyable by staff and young people." Another commented, "My class (Swans communication class) enjoyed the session - props were really good. They all sat well and enjoyed the whole session apart from one young man who was beginning to get unsettled and left the room."

Marshlands School, Stafford. 19/04/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 53 children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all bar two of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good" and one as "4/5 – Good". Comments were:

• "This was an absolutely brilliant session - pitched "just right" at the children's level. They were totally absorbed and the time whizzed past. How can I carry on teaching this afternoon after this! Can we have [the Storyteller] every week?"
• "Full attention was given to a very good storyteller. The use of props was excellent and the children loved it. Thank you."
• "Enjoyed by all."
• "Lovely stories - good sensory interaction involving all the children."

Blackmarston School, Hereford. 17/04/13

Our Storyteller ran three sessions involving a total of 22 children. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. One rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one as "4/5 – Good". One added, "Great repetition. Good response from all children in group - eye contact, turn taking, waiting, tracking. Children shared anticipation when it was their turn. Adults participation was good."

Aquamira Day Services, Shrewsbury. 28/02/13, 13/03/13, 20/03/13

A total of 17 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 storytelling fun to do for me as well as the service users. Very good." Another commented, "Very good support and training given by [the Trainer]- much appreciated by the Aquamira team."

Abbots Wood Day Services, Abbots Wood. 28/02/13, 13/03/13, 20/03/13

A total of 16 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:

• "Excellent training. Very pleasant and helpful trainer."
• "It's great to see other people deliver the stories and their styles and to see the listeners responses. Also get feedback from [the Trainer]."
• "Very enjoyable experience for myself and also for the listeners who took part. Really inspiring watching the reactions of the listeners. What a great concept of storytelling - would highly recommend."

Overley Hall School, Telford. 29/01/13

Our Storyteller ran four sessions involving a total of 21 children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They all rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”.

Rigby Hall School, Bromsgrove. 24/01/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 31 children. We received feedback from one teacher who judged that all the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”.

The Bridge School, Telford. 07/12/12

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 46 participating children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that 94% of the children had benefitted from the storytelling. Three teachers rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good” with the other rating it as "4/5 - Good”. Comments were:

• "All of the children enjoyed it, very tactile and sensory. One child was giggling and reaching out more than usual."
• "The children within the group enjoyed interacting with the story, some of which normally push objects away but wanted to explore too."
• "Unusual stories makes a change to familiar traditional stories. Time for each child to have a turn maybe a little rushed with so many in group."
• "Particularly beneficial for the primary students in the group."

Two Rivers Primary School, Tamworth., 23/11/12

Our Storyteller ran seven sessions involving a total of 49 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that 100% of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Both teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one added, “We loved it thank you.”

Oak Wood Primary School, Nuneaton. 14/11/12

Our Storyteller ran eight multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 62 participating children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all the children had benefitted from the storytelling. Three teachers rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good” with the other rating it as "4/5 - Good”.

Tiverton School , Coventry. 24/09/12

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 31 participating children. We received feedback from two teachers who judged that all the children had benefitted from the storytelling. Both rated the experience as "4/5 - Good”.

RNIB Pears Centre for Specialist Learning, Coventry.19/07/12

Our Storyteller ran three multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 15 participating children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all the children had benefitted from the storytelling. Two rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good” with the other rating it as "4/5 - Good”.

Queen's Croft Community School, Lichfield. 16/07/12

Our Storyteller ran four multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 35 participating children. We received feedback from three teachers. They judged that all the children had benefitted from the storytelling and two rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good” with the other rating it as "4/5 - Good”. One added, “Totally excellent experience for all. Thank you.”

Baginton Fields School , Coventry. 13/07/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 36 children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all bar one of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three teachers rated the sessions as “5/5 - Very Good” and two as “4/5 - Good”.

The Round Oak School & Support Service, Leamington Spa. 29/06/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 36 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that 92% of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three teachers rated the sessions as “5/5 - Very Good” and one as “4/5 - Good”.

Oscott Manor School, Birmingham. 26/06/12

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 38 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that 79% of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Two teachers rated the sessions as “5/5 - Very Good” and two as “4/5 - Good”. One added, "Sentence didn't need to repeating for each child due to their levels - not his fault."

Merryfields Community Special School. Newcastle. 03/05/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 35 children. We received feedback from three teachers. They judged that all the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three teachers rated the sessions as “5/5 - Very Good”.

Castlewood School, Coventry. 27/04/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 35 children. No feedback was received.

Castlewood School, Coventry. 26/04/12

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 31 children. No feedback was received

Dame Ellen Pinsent School, Birmingham. 20/04/12

Our Storyteller ran eight sessions involving a total of 84 children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four teachers rated the sessions as “5/5 - Very Good” and one added, "One boy was rather frightened by the physical contact."

Selly Oak School, Birmingham. 16/01/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 44 children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that 100% of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Three teachers rated the sessions as “5/5 - Very Good” and two as “4/5 - Good”.

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