Recently, our students took an inspiring trip to Sir William Burrough Primary School to be apart of a visit from he children’s author Onjali Q. Raúf. The event created a shared and memorable experience, bringing together young people to engage with her powerful stories and ideas.

Returning to the primary school she once attended, Onjali spoke warmly about her childhood and how her love of storytelling began. She described creating bedtime stories for her brother and turning everyday moments into imaginative tales.

She also reflected on time spent in her local library, where she discovered books such as those featuring Tintin, inspiring her to see curiosity and asking questions as a superpower.

Onjali described her writing journey and her books, including The Boy at the Back of the Class. She shared the real life experiences behind the story and spoke honestly about the challenges of writing, explaining that each book is different and can take years to complete.

Many of our young learners were delighted to receive signed books and stickers, leaving the session feeling excited and inspired. This visit reflects one of our values Aspiration, since our students were encouraged to think ambitiously about their own futures and to see how creativity and curiosity can shape meaningful pathways in life.