World News

Grange Comprehensive pupils enjoy workshop with award-winning screenwriter

By World reporter

5:30pm Tuesday 16th March 2010

BAFTA award-winning TV screen writer Jimmy McGovern led a workshop at The Grange Comprehensive.

He spoke to pupils about creating a story and structuring a narrative.

Liverpool-born Jimmy, aged 61, wrote for Brookside, created Cracker in 1993, The Lakes, The Street, Hillsborough and Moving On.

Jordan Warburton, an 11-year-old pupil, said: “Getting the chance to work with somebody like Jimmy was brilliant.

“We’ll be able to apply these skills to all aspects of our English work as the exams approach.”

Using silent movies of Charlie Chaplin as a stimulus, as well as excerpts from his own work, Jimmy discussed the notion of telling a good story to an audience.

Pupils were then challenged to write a tale of their own, which they plan to fil in silent movie format.

Adam Simpson, assitant curriculum leader for English, said: “Pupils have really benefited from the knowledge and expertise of such a fantastic writer.”

The visit was arranged between the English department and Eddie McGovern, a member of staff at The Grange, and Jimmy’s nephew.

Steve Patterson, curriculum leader for English, said: “This has been a privilege and a thoroughly beneficial experience for all involved.

“Pupils and staff alike were left feeling positively zealous about writing.”

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