For Attention of: Headteacher / Literacy Co-ordinator

Re. Literacy and Illustration Workshops by Simon Murray

   

My name is Simon Murray; I am a children’s author and illustrator. Following a successful four years illustrating the bestselling Mokee Joe series for Hodder Children’s Books, I released my own picture book series featuring Icky Doo Dah, a mischievous and fun loving character who loves to cause chaos and havoc!
Image of illustration from Icky Doo Dah Book 2, The Royal Bling Thing... in this image Icky is flying a plane against the backdrop of the town and sky.

I have been visiting schools for over 10 years. In the last school year over 12,000 primary school children have taken part in my workshops across the UK. I visit two primary schools per week. During my visit, which usually lasts for the full school day, I actively promote the link between illustration and writing through lively fun-packed workshops. My workshops are popular in both mainstream and special schools with pupils from Reception through to Year 6 with an art and / or story writing focus.

My visit usually starts with a 40 minute whole school assembly. This involves live-drawing, poetry, and the imaginative origins of my character. This is followed by workshops with each class where the children create illustrations or storyboards, as well as helping me produce a unique A1 illustration of Icky Doo Dah to leave as a stimulus for the class. The most impressive illustrations in the school can be put on my website (www.ickydoodah.com) for all to see!

I have received very positive feedback from Head Teachers, Literacy Coordinators and Art Teachers. This feedback has highlighted that beyond the pure enjoyment of an exciting, high-energy day of literacy and art activities, there are many other positive aspects to my visit. These include:

  • Improvements in children's group participation and interaction.
  • Developing and bringing out the children's style and imagination in their artwork.
  • Developing a deeper understanding of the important link between writing and illustration.
  • Capturing the imagination of even the 'reluctant reader'.
  • Helping children who lack confidence in a formal class setting.
  • My workshops are fully inclusive and support children of all abilities to achieve great things.
  • My visits often lead to class projects and impressive displays, which brighten up the whole school!
     
Icky in space illustration from Simon's first book.    Icky in space illustration from Simon's first book.

Current Prices:
£395 for a full day workshop and £250 for a half-day. (For large schools I also offer a two day visit for £790).  These prices include a set of books for the library. 

I will bring along a letter on the day giving parents the opportunity to order signed and dedicated copies of my books if the school wish.

If you would be interested in booking a visit for your school please contact my agent Rachel Huggett-Murray (details below), who can give you any further information you require and arrange a suitable date for my visit. 

Further information is also available at: www.ickydoodah.com

Kind regards,

Simon Murray

Contact details to book a workshop: Rachel Huggett-Murray (Booking Agent)
Tel : 01635 42567      Email: simonmurray50@hotmail.com


Simon Murray Illustration Ltd. 6 Stanley Road, Newbury, Berks, RG14 7PB.