'˜Truly fabulous' book by Leamington pupils receives national recognition

A children's story book created by pupils at Sydenham Primary School has won national recognition.
Sydenham Primary School pupils with copies of The Unique Unicorn. NNL-161114-142433001Sydenham Primary School pupils with copies of The Unique Unicorn. NNL-161114-142433001
Sydenham Primary School pupils with copies of The Unique Unicorn. NNL-161114-142433001

Earlier this year, all 330 pupils at the school contributed towards developing The Unique Unicorn - which includes more than 430 pieces of artwork and photos - with the help of children’s author Lee Sterrey.

Judges in the 2016 Arts & Minds competition - an annual UK-wide competition aimed at promoting race equality and diversity in schools - were so impressed by the Sydenham children’s book that they awarded it a special commendation.

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In a letter from Chris Keates, general secretary of NASUWT, representing the judges, it was written: “This is an amazing book. It looks at the importance of communication and is a fun and accessible read. We love the idea of the unicorns changing colours when they take on different ideas. It’s nice to think this is a whole school project and the product of something that was a lot bigger. A truly fabulous piece of work.”

In the competition, pupils from primary, secondary and special schools are judged in two categories: art and creative writing.

Associate headteacher Carol Glenny said: “The standard of entries in the competition are high. This certificate of recognition from the judges is very special and we as a whole school are very proud of this achievement.”

Lee Sterrey, who provided guidance to the pupils throughout the process of creating the book, said: “The children had amazing ideas and were very determined to ensure their values around diversity were represented. It is fantastic that their story and artwork has been recognized in this way.”

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The Unique Unicorn follows the journey of a unicorn who feels different from all of the other grey unicorns on Planet Rock. She meets Nine-eyes the alien who takes her to Sydenham Primary School on Earth where she learns to celebrate what makes her unique.

The school is translating the story into different languages. It is currently available in English, Polish, Romanian and French from Amazon: visit goo.gl/GNSWkn

To find out more about the book, visit www.facebook.com/TheUniqueUnicornBook

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