There was superhuman creativity at work, when the author of The Human Project led a workshop at Marshland High School.

Tilney All Saints-based writer-illustrator Pen Avey based the session around her latest book, in which schoolgirl genius Eva struggles to protect her android younger sister.

“Pen Avey has recently published Project Human, and this text provided the inspiration for a robot-themed creative writing session,” said Joe Clark, Literacy Lead at our school, which is a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

“Eight students from Year 7 and Year 8 participated, reading an extract from Project Human, exploring modern robotic successes and failures, then planned and wrote their own story, centred around robotic failure.”

Ms Avey, whose other books include Dear Earthling: Cosmic Correspondent, had spent time with our aspiring writers before – and generously provided the group with signed copies of Project Human.

“Pen Avey is a returning visitor who has provided our students the opportunity to engage with creative writing outside of their normal lessons,” continued Mr Clark, who organised the event as part of our World Book Day celebrations.

“Pen’s visits are always an enjoyable experience for our students. They get to connect with a published writer, who enables their creativity, provides feedback on their creations, and builds a sense of joy around reading and writing – especially during the World Book Day period.”

“Students also left the session with a signed copy of Pen’s book,” he added.

“We love having external guests and experts visit our school to provide insight, variety, and new experiences for our students.”