Two Erskine schools have been learning about the delights of writing from one of the UK's leading football authors.

Primary seven pupils at Bargarran Primary and St John Bosco Primary, which share a campus, recently took part in a 'Delights' workshop led by Daniel Gray.

The joint school programme aims at bringing pupils together to learn about their difference and celebrate the things they share.

During the workshops, Daniel spoke to the pupils about his work and the various inspirations and writing processes that shape it. 

Pupils were also supported to create their own 'delight', focusing on a smell or sound which triggers happy memories.

Daniel said: "After such a long time not being able to deliver these delights sessions in schools due to the pandemic, it was a delight in itself to be back. 

"I couldn't have wished for sparkier, funnier, sharper young people to make this comeback with either. 

The Gazette: Schoolkids at St John Bosco Primary were encouraged to let their imaginations run wildSchoolkids at St John Bosco Primary were encouraged to let their imaginations run wild (Image: Nil by Mouth)

"Their imaginations were superb, especially when we talked about writing about our favourite smells and noises. 

"By the end of the session, every pupil had created their own little piece of writing about something that mattered to them and it's a real privilege to be able to encourage them to do this and then listen to them telling the rest of the class about it. 

"And of course with the World Cup taking place we had some football stories – a few of which I might pinch for my next book!"

The visit was arranged by equalities charity Nil by Mouth and the Scottish Book Trust through the 'Live Literature' programme, which brings reading and writing to the heart of Scotland's communities by funding author events.

Emma Alexander, engagement officers at Nil by Mouth, said: "It's brilliant being invited back to work on the shared campus with both schools and we are grateful to the Scottish Book Trust for helping bring Daniel in to lead these sessions. 

"It's always a pleasure to sit and listen to what the children say delights them and I am always struck by how it’s the simple things in life that crop up in their choices. 

"We are looking forward to returning to work in Erskine in 2023 and have some more book related fun with our 'Neeps and Tatties' Scots language project in January, which will see the pupils consider how reading and sharing food with others helps break down barriers between people."