National Simultaneous Storytime.
Catholic schools across the Archdiocese have celebrated National Simultaneous Storytime this year, gathering at 11am to dive into the world of ‘Give Me Some Space’, written by Australian author, Philip Bunting.
Back for its 21st year, the event promised to be an intergalactic experience. ‘Give Me Some Space’ was read by astronaut, Dr Shannon Walker, and broadcast live into Australian classrooms and libraries, from the International Space Station. 1,980,280 people from 33,418 different locations participated in National Simultaneous Storytime this year.
Each year, the Australian Library and Information Association selects a picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author, to be read simultaneously throughout the country. It is a colourful, fun and vibrant event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy.
Students from St Joseph’s Primary School, Adelong, enjoyed reading along with Dr Walker. They learnt some interesting facts about the solar system and reflected on the key message from the book – the importance of looking after planet earth.
St Thomas the Apostle Primary School, Kambah, welcomed Nicole Lawder MLA, Member for Brindabella, who read ‘Give Me Some Space’ to the students. Principal Ursula Jamieson thanked Ms Lawder for visiting St Thomas the Apostle Primary School, noting how much the students had enjoyed the story time this year.
Drama students from Trinity Catholic College, Goulburn, and their teacher, Ms Anne Keene, visited the Goulburn Mulwaree Library to perform their interpretation of ‘Give Me Some Space’ for local children.
At St Vincent’s Primary School, Aranda, students had the opportunity to experience space during their library lessons. Mrs Rachel Donnelly, Librarian, decorated the school library with fairy lights and planets for the event. “Thank you to our librarian, Mrs Donnelly, for our amazing space-themed simultaneous story time setting,” said Principal Lina Vigliotta. “It was wonderful to see the students truly immersed in the story and celebrating their love of reading,” she said.
