Primary school pupils take part in poetry programme to improve mental health

Children from three primary schools in Southwark are taking part in a poetry programme to help with mental health issues caused by lockdowns.

Poet and theatre-maker Naomi Cortes has taken her P is for Poetry programme to John Donne Primary School, John Keats Primary School and Goose Green Primary School.

Ms Cortes uses both classic and contemporary poems from around the world as the framework for workshops which help students engage with words and express ideas confidently.

She encouraged pupils to speak clearly, convey ideas and develop vocabulary, while gaining confidence with reading and sharing aloud.

Ms Cortes said: “The wonderful gift of poetry is how it makes us feel from within. Being able to climb inside the  world of a poem enables pupils to develop a sense of belonging and self-worth, creating positive experiences  that they can reflect on when necessary”. 

The programme will end with an end-of-term poetry assembly where participants will perform  their class poems to their peers and families. 

Pictured top: Naomi Cortes with students from John Donne Primary School