• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

• 
• 
• 
• 
• 
• 

 

how to prepare for a Writers in schools visit

You should organise a school staff coordinator who makes personal contact with your visiting writer well in advance.

• Choose and book a writer using the online booking form. This leads you through writers by geographical area, the purpose of the visit, and availability of the writer you choose.
• Once the Book Council has confirmed the visit you will need to ring and confirm the following with the writer:

1. the purpose of their visit
2. how many classes they will see, and the age of the students
3. the name of the school contact person they will meet at the school gate, and after-hours contacts for emergencies
4. whether the writer needs any special preparation or materials for their visit
5. how they are getting to the school (you may need to provide transport)
6. if you are hosting a full day visit, make lunch arrangements with the writer (you don't have to provide lunch, though this is nice, but do talk about where the writer can get lunch, and let them know if they need to bring lunch

• If there is any change to the date or time of the visit, inform the Book Council immediately.
• If the writer and yourself agree that you require a workshop, inform the Book Council and be aware there is a $50 charge associated
• Inform school staff of the visit arrangements - prepare them by giving them the visit details you have agreed on with the writer.
• Prepare and inform students of the visit.

Please direct all Writers in Schools enquiries to Sarah Forster, Education Manager, or Emma Gallagher, Education Coordinator. Ph: (04) 499 1569, Fax: (04) 499 1424 or email: education@bookcouncil.org.nz (Sarah), or wis@bookcouncil.org.nz (Emma)