On Tuesday 16 May, Mr Ackland and a small group of Year 8 students attended the 2023 Auckland Writers Festival. Mrs Twomey and Mr Ryan took a group of keen Year 10 readers on Wednesday, and on Thursday, Ms Haybittle and Year 13 English went for the final day of presentations.

A stand out was speaker, and New York Times best-selling author, Jason Reynolds. (The mind behind the Mile Morales: Spider-Man novels.) He was very dynamic, speaking with the cadence of a seasoned stand-up comedian. Reynolds explained his journey to becoming one of the great writers of the 21st century recalling how it was his early failures that led to his later successes. His story being one of great value and inspiration to those in attendance. 

The day was invaluable to the students who attended, and they will draw from the advice and stories of these great artists.