St Benedict's Junior School in Glastonbury is set for a week of inspiration and exploration as they welcome Matt Dickinson, a renowned mountaineer, filmmaker, and author.

A Wells resident when not adventuring, Dickinson is an enthusiastic supporter of the Wells Festival of Literature's educational initiatives.

Over the week, Dickinson will immerse pupils in creative writing, global awareness, and the joy of reading. His vibrant series of books, The Popcorn Eating Squirrels, will serve as a colourful backdrop for encouraging young minds to think creatively and aspire to explore the world.

The Wells Festival of Literature, running from 27 October to 4 November, uses the proceeds from its public events to fund an impressive range of educational projects across local schools.

Dickinson's involvement with St Benedict's Junior School reflects the festival's wider commitment to literacy and educational engagement in Somerset, far beyond its Wells base.

Among the festival's other initiatives are an appearance by best-selling children's author MG Leonard at the annual Year 6 school event in Cedars Hall, Wells, and the Poems by Post project in schools in Chewton Mendip and Chilcompton.

The Glastonbury school is part of a wider community reaping the benefits of the festival's ongoing educational outreach. Other projects funded by the festival this academic year include the donation of 300 books to Kings of Wessex Academy and engaging pupils at St Paul's Junior School in Shepton Mallet in an abridged Shakespearean play at the Merlin Theatre in Frome.

To discover more about the festival or to book tickets, visit www.wellsfestivalofliterature.org.uk or call 01749 834483. Event brochures can be found at Waterstones in Wells and at several other venues throughout the region.

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