Storytelling In Your Area - Yorkshire and the Humber: 2012 -2015

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

Applefields School, York. 26/11/15

Our Storyteller ran four multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 34 children with severe learning disabilities and/or severe autism spectrum disorder. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all 34 children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good". Comments were:

• "Wonderful storytelling. [The Storyteller] did well to keep such a big and diverse group engaged. One pupil who can lash out when asked to do something unfamiliar, joined in particularly well."
• "[The Storyteller] was absolutely superb with our children, and they were all thoroughly engaged. Absolutely love Band Rehearsal and think this will be a new class favourite!"
• "Apologies for the slightly chaotic start! Storyteller kept calm throughout various disruptions and many of the pupils sat for way longer than they normally would."
• "Great storytelling and the storyteller coped exceptionally well with what was a very challenging situation. All pupils enjoyed the stories."

Mowbray School, Bedale. 16/10/15

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 32 children with severe learning disabilities and/or severe autism spectrum disorder. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all 32 children 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:

• "Fantastic experience for our pupils. They really enjoyed being immersed in the story."
• "Kept it nice and pacey for our children (waiting skills poor!)"
• "Brilliant. Thank you."
• "[The Storyteller] was very good with the children. She interacted with them in a very positive way. I think the children were very excited and keen to find out what was going to happen next. Staff also enjoyed the experience! Thank you."
• "Thank you. The pupils really engaged in the session and showed a great deal of enjoyment."

The Listonshiels Resource Centre, Bradford. 15/09/15, 29/09/15, 13/10/15

There were a total of 10 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". Comments were:

• "Much more confident now after a few sessions."
• "I have enjoyed this training very much, and think our service users will enjoy it too."
• "I thoroughly enjoyed the storytelling sessions and could listen to the storyteller reading all day."

The Grove Resource Centre, Bradford. 15/09/15, 29/09/15, 13/10/15

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, "Was very good. Enjoyed all the training that was provided to us."

Springwater School, Harrogate. 28/09/15

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 33 children with severe learning disabilities and/or severe autism spectrum disorder. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all of 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 session. Our boys and girls loved the pirate story." Another commented, "It was a really great session. Thank you! Thank you also for the generous donation of two new Bag Books - we're so excited to start using them. You're always welcome back to our school in the future!"

Women's Day Service, Shipley. 02/07/15, 09/07/15, 16/07/15

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 all sessions. I feel they work very well and will be carrying on this reading on a regular basis."
• "Really beneficial for the people we support."
• "Really enjoyed learning about Bag Books. Really good fun."

North Parade Day Centre, Bradford. 02/07/15, 09/07/15, 16/07/15

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 the other as "4/5 - Good". Comments were:

• "Have enjoyed the training session. Good fun."
• "Very good."
• "I have really enjoyed doing this training and have been brought out of my comfort zone. Really nice to see a difference in engagement in 3 short weeks."

Hollybank Trust, Mirfield. 11/06/15, 18/06/15, 25/06/15

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, "Really useful resource. Lovely ineractive session improves concentration and turn-taking skills. Encouraged lots of social interaction." Another commented, "Loved the training and inclusives approach to a story."

Scope Aspire Service, Halifax. 11/06/15, 18/06/15, 25/06/15

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, "Nice range of stories and enjoyable to tell." The other commented, "Got really good feedback about different responses. Surprised by positivity from customers. Will use again."

Ganton Special School, Hull. 12/05/15

Our Storyteller ran six multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 41 children with severe learning disabilities and/or severe autism spectrum disorder. We received feedback from six teachers who judged that all bar one of the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Five rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good" and one as “4/5 – Good". Comments were:

• "A wonderful experience for all involved, including the staff! It was lovely to see each child so engaged and happy. The autistic children responded particularly well. A fantastic time was had by all."
• "Wonderful experience for all the children engaging at different levels. Inspired us to relaunch the Bag Books in school and raise their profile."
• "Pupils really enjoyed the experience and anticipated turn taking. Storyteller interacted well with pupils, taking into account their needs."
• "Initially, children were less interested than anticipated but as [The Storyteller] moved around the group, they became co-operative and responded to her words and actions. Over time they remembered the learnt responses and I believe they enjoyed the activity."
• "All children enjoy experiencing the different sensory aspects of the story. Two children were not sat in the circle but were involved when the items were taken to them. All children remained engaged. The storyteller was fantastic at involving the children and really sensitive and flexible to meet each child's needs."
• "It was great, each child engaged well. Even one child who wouldn't sit with us engaged on a 1:1 basis with another member of staff (she took each item to them). The storyteller herself was amazing, full of fun and each child engaged with her."

Millers Day Service, Beverley. 23/04/15, 30/04/15, 07/05/15

There were a total of 12 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees who all rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Good idea and it works. Needs motivated staff which we had. Very good." Another commented, "Fantastic sessions! Service users and all staff have enjoyed. Definitely going to look into getting new Bag Books stories."

Pastures Day Service, Goole. 23/04/15, 30/04/15, 07/05/15

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

• "Could definitely see the benefits of the Bag Book stories on the clients in the group."
• "I loved this course, very good for our service users."
• "The whole training was very good. Was fun, informative with lots of tips to do with the service users."
• "I really enjoyed the training and so did the service users."

Fairfield School, Batley. 05/05/15

Our Storyteller ran four multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 26 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all of 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:

• "Thank you for your visit. We had experienced a Bag Books storytelling session a few years ago and do have several Bag Books stories in school. I had forgotten how effective the stories are, so it was great to have a refresher. We are looking forward to opening our packs of 'The Little Seed' and 'Jason's Wish' which we shall do immediately! Please thank [The Storyteller] for a great day - everyone enjoyed the stories and was impressed with the Bag Books."
• "Fantastic Storyteller, very confident with the children. All the children were focussed and enjoyed the stories."
• "The practical hands on resources were engaging for the whole group."
• "The session was well conducted. Learners were involved and engaged from the beginning and [The Storyteller] interacted well with all the learners. The resources were very good and well used. They were appropriate for the learners. Learners were given time to explore and respond and they did participate well and fully."

Tweendykes Special School, Hull. 21/04/15

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 26 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from two teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Both rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good". One added, "All of the pupils that attended really enjoyed them."

North West SILC - Penny Field, Leeds. 26/03/15

Our Storyteller ran six multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 36 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from six teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Four rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good" and two as “4/5 – Good". Comments were:

• "We would appreciate more sessions please. A good addition and would be great if we could match with our curriculum!"
• "The session was engaging and enjoyed by all pupils. Perhaps slightly more time needed to allow children to explore objects but that might have been due to delayed start."
• "Children enjoyed the story. Some children had already heard a story in a previous session and had specifically wanted another one."
• "Storytelling in pairs for older children. Children on lowest level would need repeated use to get max response. That's no reflection on today's telling."
• "Very good session. Got lots of smiles from pupils and interaction. Some sleepy pupils today, but still enjoyed it. Very beneficial."

Kings Mill School, Driffield. 24/03/15

Our Storyteller ran three multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 21 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good". Comments were:

• "All our children in our class enjoyed the stories. The interaction with each child was really good. It gave us lots of ideas to work with the PMLD children. The storyteller was very good and knew how to interact with our children."
• "All class 4 (PMLD) children went into the hall for stories. All of them joined in with it all, especially three pupils who got a lot out of the sensory."
• "Excellent afternoon. Lovely to see the reaction of the children. [The Storyteller] was fab!"

Lower Edge Day Service, Brighouse. 05/03/15, 12/03/15, 19/03/15

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 3 sessions were very enjoyable. All the group got something from the storytelling and also gave them confidence. The 3 sessions gave me the confidence, motivation and knowledge to do a full storytelling."
• "The group has really enjoyed each session. The overall interaction with individuals has improved over each training session. I personally have found it fun and grown in confidence."
• "The experience has been excellent, one people we support have had a positive impact, they are getting more and more involved."
• "[The Storyteller] was a very experienced trainer and explained everything clearly. She involved service users."

The Next Step Trust, Halifax. 05/03/15, 12/03/15, 19/03/15

There were a total of 8 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, "Clear feedback [was] provided by the tutor."

The Robert Ogden School, Rotherham. 17/03/15

Our Storyteller ran six multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 31 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good". Comments were:

• "Very good and animated. Well presented and the pupils were engaged throughout."
• "As someone relatively inexperienced in this field, I thought the delivery really engaged the pupils. Some of the lower ability ones were particularly animated."
• "Willing to engage with pupils who she was unfamiliar with. Was very positive and kept the attention of students whilst meeting their needs of attention. Thank you. Our students enjoyed the stories. This was shown with their positive behaviour."

Hollybank School, Mirfield. 10/03/15

Our Storyteller ran three multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of 15 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all 15 children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good". One added, "Lovely session!" Another commented, "Lovely session, our mobile student was interested for the full session and remained in the room. All students were awake throughout. Lovely and friendly storyteller."

Talbot Specialist School, Sheffield. 03/03/15

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

• "An effective use of surprisingly simple materials. These story packs would be useful for short sessions, additional to the regular curriculum. The story had a high level of engagement for the students, especially as it was told by an unfamiliar person. The simplicity and "low tech" nature of the material would make it ideal for use as a "standby" when a TA has to stand in for a teacher during an unexpected "crisis". This material would be welcomed and beneficial in our classroom."
• "Students really enjoyed the sensory story and got really involved with it whilst remaining calm and concentrating."
• "The storyteller was very animated and friendly. She engaged well with the students and the resources for each page were all multi-sensory and engaging. The students thoroughly enjoyed both stories. Please come back soon."
• "[The Storyteller] was excellent. Very friendly, greeted students, got to know their names, asked about their needs. Took her time, let students explore, very animated. Always gave positive comments to the students. A wonderful session!"
• "A group that are generally tricky to engage, were involved and participated well. The only student that did not engage was finding the new experience difficult due to mood, novelty and timing (he is often tired in the afternoon)."

Higgins Close Day Service , Halifax. 05/02/15, 12/02/15, 26/02/15

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:

• "Enjoyed all the sessions and very productive for future activities."
• "I really enjoyed it."
• "I thought the storytelling was very good but feel that with experience I could improve on some aspects. This is positive thought!"

Royd Square Day Service, Hebden Bridge. 05/02/15, 12/02/15, 26/02/15

There were a total of 21 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "[The Storyteller] was excellent in explaining how to tell a story and in training. And very good feedback." The other commented, "[The Storyteller] was an excellent trainer! Good feedback from [her]."

Norfolk Park Primary School, Sheffield. 03/12/14

Our Storyteller ran four sessions involving a total of 23 children. We received feedback from five teachers who 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 four as “4/5 – Good". Comments were:

• "The stories were great. Children were engaged and the storyteller gave each child time to respond."
• "All the children (Y1-F1) really engaged throughout the session. Each child responded well to the props used."
• "The child was engaged, interacted and was responsive during the storytelling. All the children in the group I attended seemed to enjoy the experience."

Greenacre School, Barnsley. 19/11/14

Our Storyteller ran seven sessions involving a total of  28 children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all 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". One added, "All the students who attended the 2.00pm sessions really enjoyed the experience and the interaction (photo evidence L2 iPad). I would love to be able to have access to such books (sensory) and feel our pupils would benefit from this experience on a regular basis." Another commented, "With familiar support A was able to join in with the storytelling session. I would like to see her work with students such as M and J to look for ideas. The storyteller was very willing to come into the personal space of a pupil that can be quite aggressive and doesn't really like strangers. She had a quiet, relaxing manner. The Bag Book session at Greenacre was positively received by staff and students. The resources were appropriate and delivered in a dynamic but structured way. We were delighted with the service and particularly pleased with the two story boxes we received! When the new literacy budget is released, I would definitely be interested in purchasing a day/half a day session."

Fullerton House School, Doncaster. 29/10/14

Our Storyteller ran four sessions involving a total of 13 children with autistic spectrum disorder. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that all 13 the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good". Comments were:

• "Very good even for children with fleeting attention, stories helped the students engage."
• "Very good."
• "Very well presented. Used very well at the adult site already. Would greatly benefit students here working on attention levels and group work. Would greatly benefit student's speech and language needs of all students. Presenter able to present to all levels of students within the session. Very enthusiastic."

Woolley Wood School, Sheffield. 23/09/14

Our Storyteller ran three sessions involving a total of 21 children as part of our 21st Birthday - National Multi-Sensory Storytelling Day. We received feedback from one teachers who judged that all of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good" and added, "Story was lovely. Children all engaged. One very receptive. Another very engaged when her turn. One eventually accepted hand being touched and reached independently. One upset, but calmed on most occasions through touching object. Overall very helpful and enjoyable experience. Storyteller  - lovely manner with the children. Thank you for coming to our school."

Cambian Day Service, Sheffield. 23/09/14

There were a total of 7 adult participants as part of our 21st Birthday - National Multi-Sensory Storytelling Day. We received feedback from one member of staff who judged that all of the participants had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling and who rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”.

St Andrew's Children's Hospice, Grimsby. 09/04/14

Our Storyteller ran multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of four children. The hospice staff judged that all the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "All patients have multi-sensory needs. All participated and reacted in their own way. Thank you very much."

Martin House Children's Hospice, Wetherby. 09/04/14

Our Storyteller ran multi-sensory storytelling sessions involving a total of four children and one sibling. The hospice staff judged that all the children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "Repetition, sensory experiences, use of voice [were good]. Giving each child an opportunity to participate. Watching the children respond to the story/activities."

Pine Trees Day Service, York. 04/03/14, 11/03/14, 18/03/14

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:

• "Very interesting and motivating. Feel more confident now. Also more enthusiastic."
• "I feel confident in incorporating Bag Books as weekly timetable sessions at my workplace. It feels very beneficial for our customer group and staff motivation/job satisfaction."
• "I really enjoyed this and look forward to introducing it as a session into my workplace."

Accessible Art & Media, York. 04/03/14, 11/03/14, 18/03/14

There were a total of 15 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Brilliant! Practical - straight into the "doing" which I loved. Rather than too much talking. Great to get feedback at the end of each storytelling - helpful feedback too." The other commented, "Fab training - thanks!"

65a Valley Road, Northallerton. 28/01/14, 11/02/14, 25/02/14

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

65b Valley Road, Northallerton. 28/01/14, 11/02/14, 25/02/14

There were a total of eight 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 Bag Books are very good. The people we support enjoyed joining in with all the senses - touching, smelling, listening. It's good interaction for all."
• "Very beneficial to my job role as a learning disability support worker. Excellent training."
• "It has given me more confidence to talk and tell stories to people."

Mossbrook Primary School, Sheffield. 10/12/13

Our Storyteller ran seven sessions involving a total of 67 children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all bar two 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". One added, "The session was great for children working at all levels. They loved all the multi-sensory resources during the session. Thank you." Another commented, "Storyteller was very enthusiastic and hands on. Resources were well made and durable. Children between P4 and P8 and above may have benefitted from a visual aid of the actual story book to make the links. Music would have been an added experience."

East SILC - John Jamieson School, Leeds. 06/12/13

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

National Railway Museum, York. 03/12/13

Our Storyteller ran multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 13 children from Hob Moor Oak Childrens Centre, York and Applefields School, York. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all 13 children had benefitted from the storytelling. One rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good” and the other as "4/5 - Good". One added, "All the children absolutely loved it! Great place for a storytelling session too. Thank you!" The other commented, "The setting was lovely and the pupils responded well to the stories and the storyteller's style. It would have been nice to have a bit more time for each pupil to explore the artefacts. Overall another excellent Bag Book experience which are always worthwhile and very beneficial."

Media Museum, Bradford. 26/11/13

Our Storyteller ran multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 14 children from Hazelbeck School, Bradford and Chellow Heights School, Bradford. 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, "We would all like to thank you for an absolutely wonderful day. The storyteller was wonderful and fully engaged our pupils - who had a great time. The props were fantastic and added real magic and meaning to the story." The other commented, "Great session in a great venue. Lovely day out for the class."

Castle House, Scarborough. 22/10/13, 29/10/13, 05/11/13

There were a total of 15 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 whole process of storytelling. Looking forward to telling lots of different stories. Service users really benefitted from experience. It was excellent." The other commented, "Very enjoyable experience for service users and staff alike. All round, very good."

Cauwood Day Centre, Malton. 22/10/13, 29/10/13, 05/11/13

There were a total of 23 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "[The Storyteller-Trainer] was fantastic." The other commented, "I really enjoyed telling story. Looking forward to doing another."

Heatherwood School, Doncaster. 15/10/13

Our Storyteller ran six sessions involving a total of 32 children. We received feedback from five teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All five teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. Comments were:

• "We listened to two wonderful stories (The Fairground, Gran's Visit) told in a very energetic and enthusiastic way. The pupils made some excellent responses. Many thanks."
• "Excellent sensory story. All children actively involved."
• "The sensory activities in the story were well matched to the children's level. [The Storyteller] told the story brilliantly and made sure the whole group heard the parts individually. [The Storyteller] asked appropriate questions at beginning, i.e. about visually impaired etc and each child enjoyed the sensory experience. A fantastic session from beginning to end."
• "Pupils had a great time. All engaged in story and willing to take part. Positive interactions and responses suited range of abilities from P3(ii) to Level 1 NC. Thank you."
• "Wonderful session. Kept all the pupils attention. All were interested and anticipating the next step. Good eye contact with pupils. Encouraged children to explore the items. Quickly established rapport with everyone."

Selby Day Centre (morning group), Selby. 23/07/13, 06/08/13, 20/08/13

A total of 18 adult participants across the three sessions. There were four trainees and they all rated the overall project as "5/5 - Very Good".

Selby Day Centre (afternoon group), Selby. 23/07/13, 06/08/13, 20/08/13

A total of 12 adult participants across the three sessions. There were four trainees; three rated the overall project as "5/5 - Very Good" and one as "4/5 - Good".

Phoenix Special School, Keighley. 08/07/13

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 25 children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All three teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good”. One added, "[The Storyteller] was so lovely with the children. She allowed each child to experience the story in many ways. All the children in the session really enjoyed it. New words were heard and spoken as a result of the experience.” Another commented, “All children got involved and I think a lot would benefit from it.”

Phoenix Special School, Keighley. 01/07/13

Our Storyteller ran six multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 31 participating children. We received feedback from one teacher. They 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" and commented, "All children were involved and engaged. All got turns in feeling, pressing and listening to the various book boards. I think a big percentage at our school would benefit and enjoy sessions like these."

Castle Hill School, Huddersfield. 24/06/13

Our Storyteller ran four multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 22 participating children. We received feedback from one teachers. They judged that all of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They rated the overall experience as "5/5 - Very Good" and commented, "A brilliant hands on session. Thank you."

Barnsley College, Barnsley. 18/06/13

Our Storyteller ran two multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 12 participants and five trainees. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all of the participants had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They both rated the overall experience as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "Good resources and excellent information provided. It was interesting to look at the different styles of storytelling on the DVD and the different ways that the materials could be delivered dependent on the learners. It was good to look at the different stories available and the information provided on how to deliver i.e. voice, tone etc." The other commented, "Inclusive for all learners. Engaged the group. Each learner participated on at least one page. Adapted to fit lessons. Good variety of stories. Could write down part of the story on back of the story card."

Affinity Trust, Leeds. 08/05/13, 29/05/13, 12/06/13

There were a total of 20 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees. Feedback was received from two trainees who both rated the overall training/mentoring as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "I had a great time on this course. I have enjoyed my learning and the bits of practice even though they've been a bit challenging."

Pegasus Lodge, Normanton. 08/05/13, 29/05/13, 12/06/13

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". One added, "I was very impressed by Bag Books and how interactive it was. Also how people (service users) got involved and enjoyed them." Another commented, "Very enjoyable and beneficial with service users."

South SILC - Broomfield, Leeds. 11/06/13

Our Storyteller ran six multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 47 participating children. We received combined feedback on behalf of all the teachers. They judged that all 47 children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They rated the overall experience as "5/5 - Very Good" and commented, "Brilliant."

North East SILC - West Oaks, Wetherby. 04/06/13

Our Storyteller ran six multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 44 participating children. We received feedback from four teachers. They judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. All four rated the overall experience as "5/5 - Very Good". One commented, "The pupils all really enjoyed the story and responded very well. It was appropriate for them all and it was nice to have someone different to read to them and interact with them." Another added, "Comments from pupils: "I liked it when you dried my hair." "I liked using the razor." "I liked banging the newspaper." "I liked having my hair cut." "I was scared that I was bald." "It was a crash, bang, wallop newspaper." "It was hilarious!" "It was funny." "The lady was a superstar."

Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, Sheffield. 28/05/13

Our Storyteller ran sessions with three children and a sibling. The feedback from the hospice staff judged that all three children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They added, "The stories were fun and every child was able to take an active part. One of the children who finds it difficult to concentrate managed to sit and listen to four stories. Thank you. It was an enjoyable afternoon for us all."

Brooklands School, Skipton. 20/05/13

Our Storyteller ran four multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 20 participating children. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all of the children in their classes had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Both rated the overall experience as "5/5 - Very Good". One commented, "Really useful, enjoyed seeing somebody else using them. Ideal for small group. Would be hard if there were more than 7." Another added, "Very sensory, incorporated multi-cultural simple story lines. Relevant, fun, pace, very enjoyable. Produced lots of reaction."

Woolley Wood Primary School, Sheffield. 14/05/13

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 30 participating children. We received combined feedback from all the teachers. They judged that all 30 children had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. They rated the overall experience as "5/5 - Very Good" and commented, "Wonderful day. Resource and storytelling style perfect for our pupils."

The Forest School, Knaresborough. 30/04/13

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 35 participating children. We received feedback from five teachers. They judged that all 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:

• "I thought the session was very well delivered. It was fun and engaging for the children. The storyteller was very professional."
• "The stories were aimed at our children and I felt they were presented very well. The storyteller was animated and kept the interest of the children. The pace was good and all the children had a good chance to "have a go". Thank you for a lovely session."
• "Absolutely fantastic! Children got so much out of the session. The stories were just the right length and aimed at the right ability. The children were able to partake in an amount of each story that they felt comfortable and they were adapted to suit each class. Amazing!"
• "This session was excellent. Even the pupils who were reluctant to join in usually really enjoyed it and became involved. [The Storyteller] is great."
• "The children joined in the repetition of the story well and were enthusiastic to try the sensory element each time."

React, Sheffield. 05/03/13, 19/03/12, 02/04/13

A total of 13 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and they both rated the overall project as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "I found it brilliant. Great experience." Another commented, "I enjoy it and has given me lots to think about for my own storytelling ambitions."

It's My Life, Sheffield. 05/03/13, 19/03/12, 02/04/13

A total of 20 adult participants across the three sessions. There were three trainees and they all rated the overall project as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, "I have really enjoyed the story sessions and have learnt a lot from it." Another commented, "Loved it. Myself & clients."

Hesley Village, Rossington. 15/02/13, 08/03/13, 22/03/13

There were a total of 21 adult participants across the three sessions. There were four trainees and they all rated the overall project as "5/5 - Very Good". One added, " I think this is an appropriate activity that I can see being used in small groups and on a one to one basis. They love the literal interaction and anticipation." Another commented, "A fantastic activity for groups and individuals in our service."

Low Lathes Village, Barnsley. 15/02/13, 08/03/13, 22/03/13

There were a total of 16 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and they both rated the overall project as "5/5 - Very Good".

Cambian Specialist Day Services, Sheffield. 28/01/13, 11/02/13, 25/02/13

There were a total of 9 adult participants across the three sessions. There were two trainees and they both rated the overall project as "4/5 - Good." One added, "This training provides staff with appropriate information and guidance regarding storytelling for individuals with PMLD. Being an Occupational Therapist I felt the information was perfectly delivered to support workers at a level that was both appropriate and targeted. Thank you for providing such a fantastic training opportunity to services such as ours."

The Fields, Sheffield. 28/01/13, 11/02/13, 25/02/13

There were a total of 13 adult participants across the three sessions.There was one trainee and they rated the overall project as "5/5 - Very Good." They added, "Enjoyed all the stories - well modelled originally."

The Dales School, Northallerton. 17/12/12

Our Storyteller ran four multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 22 participating children. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that 100% of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Both rated the overall experience as “4/5 – Good”. One added, "Time given for the students to respond/nice pace. Asked about the children - re impairments, dislike etc. Engaged throughout. Eye contact between students and storyteller." Another commented, "Enquired about personal needs of pupil to ensure they got most out of the story. [The Storyteller] was very flexible about how the day ran and where she presented the stories. [The Storyteller] is a very animated storyteller and the pupils engaged at all times."

Coppice School, Doncaster, 07/12/12

Our Storyteller ran seven multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 48 participating children. We received feedback from eight teachers. They judged that all the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Six teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and two as "4/5 - 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 5 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."
• "We thought that the teaching style was very good and it got all of the class involved. With the use of all of senses helped to tell the story, it was down to all of the children's levels."

Northcott Special School, Hull. 30/11/12

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 29 participating children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that all the children had benefitted from the storytelling and who all rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good”. Comments were: 

• “The sensory supports, repetitive language patterns and 1:1 interaction were perfect for our pupils and really helped them engage. The stories were well chosen to be age appropriate, though the level of social understanding needed to follow the story about going to a football match was a bit beyond our ASD group. Overall, very enjoyable and accessible. Many thanks.” 
• “The session was great for a group of children all at varying levels and abilities.”
•  “The activity was excellent and all children were engaged. The storyteller was thoughtful and considerate towards their sensory needs and difficulties. An excellent session. Thank you.”

Ganton Special School, Hull. 22/10/12

Our Storyteller ran seven multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 53 participating children. We received feedback from three teachers who judged that 92% of the children had benefitted from the storytelling. Two of the teachers rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good” and one as "3/5 - Average”.

Delius Special School, Bradford. 17/10/12

Our Storyteller ran eight sessions involving a total of 54 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from six teachers. They judged that 98% of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Five teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one as “4/5 – Good”. One added, “Thanks for a great day!” Another commented, “Beneficial for all of them, they thoroughly enjoyed the sensory story/props.”

Hazelbeck Special School, Bradford. 10/10/12

Our Storyteller ran five sessions involving a total of 27 children with severe learning disabilities. We received feedback from three teachers. They judged that 100% of the children in their class had benefitted from the multi-sensory storytelling. Two teachers rated the overall experience as “5/5 – Very Good” and one as “4/5 – Good”. One added, “The storyteller was fantastic. She took it in turn with each pupil. The resources the storyteller used were appropriate for the pupils' ability.” Another commented, “The students were all responsive, interacted, communicated with the storyteller! The lady's body language and interaction with the students was great, taking time for their response with each individual part of the story!”

Kingsland School, Wakefield. 05/10/12

Our Storyteller ran six multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 36 participating children. We received feedback from seven teachers. They judged that 35 of the 36 children had benefitted from the storytelling and five rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good” with the other two rating is as "4/5 - Good”. One added, “We enjoyed the experience very much. Our thanks to [the Storyteller] and to the Bag Books organisation.” Another said, “All levels enjoyed it and interacted well.”

Chellow Heights Special School, Bradford. 03/10/12

Our Storyteller ran seven multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 56 participating children. We received feedback from six teachers. They judged that 86% of the children had benefitted from the storytelling. Two rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good”, three as "4/5 - Good” and one as "3/5 - Average". One added, “More props and smells.”

Applefields, York. 20/06/12

Our Storyteller ran five multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 26 participating children. We received feedback from four teachers who judged that 90% of the children in their class had benefitted from the storytelling and who all rated the experience as "5/5 - Very Good”

Welburn Hall School, York. 25/04/12

Our Storyteller ran three multi-sensory storytelling sessions with a total of 13 participating children. We received feedback from two teachers. They judged that all the children had benefitted from the storytelling. One rated the experience as "4/5 - Good” and the other as "3/5 - Average”. We subsequently received an email from the school secretary saying “Please pass on our thanks to all concerned.”

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