Small schools set for big things when the Young Regional Writers' Program heads to Shepparton

Primary school students in Shepparton and surrounding areas will learn the art of storytelling from leading Australian authors this school term, all part of State Library Victoria’s Young Regional Writers' Program.   

Former Children's Laureate Gabrielle Wang, First Nations author Kirli Saunders, and celebrated authors Jess McGeachin and Ella Mulvey will share their tips and secrets for writing a best-selling book, working with students from the region's biggest and smallest primary schools. 

Created by State Library Victoria, the Young Regional Writers' Program ensures that children in regional Victoria have the same opportunities as students in metropolitan Melbourne, at no extra cost to parents or schools. The program is codesigned by teachers and authors and brings students and writers together for a series of online and in-person workshops focussing on creative writing. 

Ten schools in Greater Shepparton and Moira Shire will take part, including some of Victoria's smallest schools: Zeerust Primary School and Undera Primary School have 10 and 11 students respectively.  

State Library Victoria Interim CEO Alistair Mytton said the program is part of an improved programming offer for young Victorians. 

'The Young Regional Writers' Program supports emerging student voices across the state to inspire young people to become lifelong learners. To date, we have engaged over 575 regional students through this program, extending the Library's reach to those who may not otherwise have access to such experiences.' 

Gabrielle Wang is looking forward to working with students at Katandra West and Bourchier Street Primary Schools. 

'Imagination is like a muscle that must be nourished and given opportunities to build and expand. There is no better time to begin this practice than in childhood when imagination is naturally strong. I can't wait to help kids embrace their creativity, and to show them what they can do with it,' she said. 

Around 150 students from the following primary schools will participate: