One of Central Victoria’s favourite events for schools is going virtual this year, meaning students across the country can hear from acclaimed authors, illustrators and poets, all from the comfort of their classroom or home.
Presented through a partnership between La Trobe University, City of Greater Bendigo, Bendigo Writers Festival and Arena Theatre, Looking Forward will be held on Monday 19 October, coinciding with the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book Week.
Hosted by animated robot Battletac, the event will take students through a series of engaging talks by professionals in the literature space – including illustrator Dub Leffler, author Coral Vass and poet Solli Raphael.
Students in Years 4 to 8 will have a chance to pose questions to the speakers in real time, and the event will also be available on-demand for schools to access later in the term.
La Trobe University Dean of School of Education, Professor Joanna Barbousas, said this iconic event on the school calendar will be available to more students this year.
“Although students can’t set foot at Ulumbarra Theatre, we are hoping to capture the buzz and excitement of this event, and good story-telling, for even more students this year.”
Professor Barbousas said the event comes at an opportune time for students.
“At a time when many of us have limited opportunities to socialise and participate in physical activities, engaging with books and exploring the art of storytelling is even more important than ever,” Professor Barbousas said.
