General News
3 September, 2025
Author Jodi Toering inspires young writers
St Mary's School at Warracknabeal had the pleasure of welcoming back award-winning children's author and past student, Jodi Toering, for a day of interactive and inspiring writers' workshops.
Ms Toering grew up on a wheat farm outside Beulah and once walked the same halls as the current pupils.
The staff said it was a joy to see her return to the school, this time as a published author,
They saw first hand the former pupil share her love of storytelling with the next generation of writers.
Throughout the day, Ms Toering ran a variety of workshops catering to all year levels, from Foundation students enjoying alliteration and artwork based on her books to Year 5/6 students delving into figurative language and the power of 'show, don't tell'.
Her engaging approach had students buzzing with excitement.
Ms Toering's sessions were full of fun, energy, and interactive learning - at times even transforming into lively game shows that helped bring literary techniques to life.
She demonstrated how the same setting - a night sky - could evoke feelings of gloom or wonder simply through word choice.
Pupils were fascinated by how language can shape atmosphere and emotion in a story.
Not only did she tailor her workshops to suit each age group, but she also ensured that students of all ability levels could participate through her engaging presentation.
, which are available in the school library.
St Mary's was proud to have hosted such a talented former student, and was thankful Ms Toering shared her passion and expertise.
