Pupils step into magical world at storytime thanks to new library

Pupils at Penn Fields School are being inspired to read after the creation of a fantastical Enchanted Library.

The library was developed over the summer holidays by Play to Measure and is designed to transport pupils into a world of wonder and imagination inspired by magical adventures such as Harry Potter and Hansel and Gretel.

Details, from the painted pillars resembling trees complete with potions, wands, owls and wizardry, to the tactile multi-sensory murals adorning the library walls, bring these stories to life. Children can read their books in the whimsical gingerbread house, or sat at a toadstool table.

Keith Rogers, Founder of Play to Measure, said: "When the English team at Penn Fields School approached us with the idea of designing a wooden tree for the children to explore, little did we know it would lead to the creation of an enchanting world within their library.

"At Play to Measure, we believe in the power of imagination, and this project exemplifies the magic that happens when creativity and learning come together. We also have a deep-rooted background in working with children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND), and this knowledge enabled us to design spaces that not only excite but also cater to the specific needs of Penn Fields' students."

Headteacher Laura Thackaberry said: "This is an amazing addition to our already wonderful school. We have already embedded reading incentive schemes across the school to promote reading for all ages and abilities and our new Enchanted Library will further inspire our students to want to read in an environment that is creative, inspiring and supports their imagination to go wild.

"As a result, more students than ever are picking up a book and are enjoying the experience that comes with reading."

In addition to the library, Play to Measure has transformed the school's woodland area into a magical space where students can explore and play in a safe environment. From the treetop village to the waterworks and relaxation grove, all of the bespoke spaces have been created with students’ needs in mind.

Penn Fields School is maintained by the City of Wolverhampton Council and Councillor Jacqui Coogan, Cabinet Member for Education, Skills and Work, said: “It’s great to see that the children and young people at Penn Fields enjoying their fantastic new spaces, which is really helping to make their school a magical place to be.”

Meanwhile, the students have been working hard to create and publish their own book which is based on the schools’ chickens. Chicken Tales will be available soon at Amazon.

Penn Fields School supports children and young people with a range of special educational needs from Early Years to post-16.