In early May 2025, Year 5 pupils at St Colmcille’s Primary School had the pleasure of welcoming storyteller and writer Patrick Ryan, as part of Poetry Ireland’s Writers in Schools programme. With over 25 years of experience, Patrick Ryan specializes in traditional folk tales, legends, and myths from various cultures, including those of Ireland and Britain .During his visit, Patrick captivated the students with his engaging storytelling sessions. He shared the essential elements that make a compelling story, such as the development of interesting characters—sometimes inspired by well-known tales—and the effective use of adjectives and adverbs to bring narratives to life. Through interactive discussions, he encouraged the children to explore these storytelling techniques, enhancing their understanding of narrative construction and creative expression.Patrick’s visit not only enriched the students’ appreciation for storytelling but also provided them with valuable tools to enhance their own writing skills. His session was a memorable highlight of the term, inspiring many budding storytellers in Year 5.
