Children’s author Catherine Barr visited Newfield Park Primary Academy to share her writing career with pupils. The visit gave children the opportunity to hear directly from Barr as she talked about her latest book, Cities Going Wild, and shared the real-life experiences that inspire her stories.
Her book explored how cities are becoming friendlier places for plants and wildlife, helping children understand how urban spaces are adapting to support the natural world. The themes of adaptability, responsibility and change encourage young readers to think about how they can help protect wildlife in their own communities.
Barr also spoke to pupils about her journey to becoming a leading children’s science and nature author. She began by studying ecology before working with environmental organisations on wildlife issues, including endangered species such as sea turtles. She later moved into journalism and become an editor at the Natural History Museum in London. Barr’s first book, The Story of Life, was written for her two daughters. Its success inspired her to continue creating stories that help children learn about science and nature while encouraging them to protect the natural world.
Barr now visits schools across the UK, encouraging children to play their part in protecting wildlife and helping them understand how the world around them is changing. Pupils at Newfield Park Primary Academy enjoyed learning about wildlife in cities and were fascinated by Barr’s real-world conservation experiences.
School Principal, Steve Payne, said: “Reading plays such an important role in helping our pupils understand the world, build confidence and develop their own ideas. Events like Catherine’s visit show children that stories connect to real experiences and real people, inspiring them to explore their interests and discover the joy reading can bring.”
The event supports the Academy’s commitment to promoting reading for pleasure across the curriculum. By providing pupils with exciting opportunities like this, the school helps children develop curiosity, confidence and a lifelong love of books.
