New Storytelling Initiative Livens Up Learning
A Kiwi mother has come up a with a new storytelling initiative which is attracting huge interest from schools and
kindergartens throughout New Zealand.
Robin Kermode has set up Stories in Action (SIA). This is a new way of telling stories, where every child in the class,
using their imagination and a variety of props acts out stories. Mrs Kermode says every child is everyone and everything
in the story.
“Children learn through their bodies, hearts and heads. Their learning is richer and more embedded when they learn this
way."
“The stories unleash leadership, self-expression, creativity and a sense of natural enjoyment. Teachers watch in awe as
children use their imaginations to interact, move and engage in new ways.”
The SIA programme teaches children in an interactive way and they learn about topical community issues. Over 2000
children have already taken part in the program since Mrs Kermode launched it just over a year ago, and dozens of
schools and kindergartens are now putting their hands up to get involved.
“The program I have established assists teachers and parents to develop storytelling further. When creativity is
developed it ignites the learning passion inside children. Being open to learning and seeing similarities in stories and
communities, inspires children,” said Mrs Kermode.
Auckland City Council has been impressed by the SIA programme and is getting in behind it, providing funding to pilot a
program at Mangere East School, a decile one school that is made up of mainly Pacifika children.
Mangere East School Deputy Principal, Adele Darwen says the children are fully engaged and look forward to coming to the
sessions.
“SIA is a springboard for other learning. The stories and the different ways a story can be shared is mind-blowing.”
Mrs Kermode is working with the Auckland City Council to assist them in spreading their goal of a 30% reduction in waste
by 2014.
“The “Be a Sustainable Hero” themes in the SIA programme are assisting the Auckland City Council promote its key message
around environmental education. It’s great for the children to be able to learn about recycling in an active, engaging
way.”
Mrs Kermode‘s goal is for the Stories in Action programme to be incorporated as part of the Early Child Education and
school curriculum.
“I am so inspired by children when they are active and interactive during stories. I love it when children see a new
point of view. There is nothing more inspiring than children listening and talking to each other’s ideas.”
Robin Kermode running the Stories in Action Programme at Mangere East Primary School
ENDS