For pupils, especially those who struggle with the written word, storytelling is a way of engaging with a story without the usual barriers. Time and time again I've worked with pupils who tell me stories are boring. What they usually mean is that they find reading and writing difficult, and don't like picking up a book for this reason. Interestingly, it is often these pupils that become the most engaged and passionate storytellers. Even for those pupils who find reading and writing easy, storytelling greatly benefits language development, speaking and listening skills and communicating individually and as an ensemble. Storytelling encourages flights into fantasy worlds. It empowers both the teller and the listener, stretches the imagination and broadens horizons, offering a deeper understanding of different cultures as well as the immediate world around us.  

While storytelling sits naturally alongside literature, it can also be a powerful educational tool across the curriculum, building not only a love of stories but also a greater passion for learning in life.