“This project has shone as a beacon of hope for everyone connected with young children and captured the imagination of so many because it’s simple, yet effective.”
Gail Alder, Early Years Advisor, North Somerset
The Need:
In North Somerset, many children arrive at preschool with lower than expected communication and language skills, a gap that has only widened since the pandemic. Early Years Advisor Gail Alder was determined to find a solution that would support these children and engage everyone involved in their care.
As a long-time advocate of sharing poetry and rhymes with young children, Gail wanted something that could be rolled out across the whole county, a resource simple enough for anyone to use, yet powerful enough to make a difference.
What They Did:
When Gail discovered The Poetry Basket, she saw its potential immediately. She revived the mantra “it takes a village to raise a child” and invited everyone working with children aged 0–5 to get involved.
From preschools, Reception and Year 1 classes to childminders, family workers, and volunteers supporting vulnerable families, the project welcomed all. Together, they began learning and reciting poems daily with the children in their care, making poetry a shared language across North Somerset’s early years settings.
The Results:
The Poetry Basket has had a direct impact on children’s language development. Practitioners report that daily repetition has enabled children to recite whole poems, often asking for their favourites by name. These interests have sparked new fascinations, leading settings to explore related topics in their provision.
Even practitioners who once felt nervous about sharing poetry have found The Poetry Basket an accessible way in. Its simplicity and structure have built confidence across the workforce. Feedback from Ofsted reports has praised both childminders and schools for their commitment to embedding poetry in their practice.
As Gail reflects, “This project has brought our community together and reminded us of the power of simple, shared language. It’s been a beacon of hope.”
