Patricia Forde, the Irish Children's Laureate, visited Donegall Road Primary School in Belfast. She spoke to pupils about the benefits of reading and writing. The visit took place ahead of World Book Day on the first Thursday of March.

Pupils at the school take part in a programme run by Fighting Words NI since September. The charity works with children from high-need schools to build creative writing skills. It partners with the Irish Children's Laureate to encourage reading.

Nine-year-old Scarlett described enjoying the workshops for drawing pictures and characters. She noted that coming up with ideas can be challenging. Eight-year-old Ishan said participants start with reluctance but soon generate many ideas and want to keep writing.

Forde stated that children read to or who read independently do better in school and life. She identified competition from screens as a key challenge to getting children to read. Parents and teachers play key roles by reading to children and dedicating school time to stories.

P5 teacher Julie Annette reported development in all pupils' confidence, self-esteem, interest, and willingness to write and share work. She tracked four or five reluctant readers and writers specifically.

Hilary Copeland, director of Fighting Words NI, said the programme builds confidence, creativity, and communication skills. The charity operates in five Belfast primary schools over three years. Pupils include those with special educational needs and reading or writing difficulties.