QUEEN Elizabeth’s School students took part in a poetry workshop and had the chance to perform on stage at the Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival.

The eight year nine pupils enjoyed learning about different approaches to poetry with published poets Rebecca Tantony and Chris White at Budleigh Town Hall.

They did a series of writing exercises and readings of famous poems and later gave a public performance of their own work.

The students are part of QE Writers, the school’s monthly creative writing group, which gives them regular opportunities to develop their skills, explore different forms of writing and share their work.

The school, part of the Ted Wragg Trust, offers a wide range of trips, clubs and activities, from Ten Tors and the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award to QE Jazz Band, surfing and mountain biking, giving students opportunities to develop their skills beyond the classroom.

“It’s important that we give our students opportunities to develop their interests and take their learning beyond the classroom,” Queen Elizabeth’s School Headteacher Paula Smith said.

“This workshop gave our young writers the chance to learn from published poets, try different approaches to their writing and share their work with an audience.

“It was lovely to see them embrace the experience and grow in confidence as writers.”

Ted Wragg Trust CEO Moira Marder added: “It’s wonderful to see QE students embracing such a brilliant opportunity to develop their creativity and have the confidence to share their own work on stage.

“At the heart of our schools is a commitment to giving every young person the opportunity to explore new interests, develop their talents and help them discover what they can achieve, and it’s brilliant to see our students doing exactly that.”

The Ted Wragg Trust was founded in 2013 and comprises 18 Devon schools and 15,500 students.