Year 9 Get the Giggles

Author Simon James Green shared his top tips for creating hilarious comedy characters with Year Nine in their writing workshops.

It turns out you don’t have to be funny to create award-winning comedy characters, or so Simon reassured us at the beginning of his writing workshops on Tuesday. Although, from the laughs Simon got in the assembly he gave earlier that morning, I can safely say he does not need to worry about not being funny himself!

Whether they considered themselves comedians or not, Year 9 threw themselves into the task of creating their very own comedy characters. Discovering along the way why everyone loves an underdog, how to raise the stakes so high your readers will be on the edge of their seats and why comedy can be a great way to discuss more serious issues. In the process, they learnt a huge amount about the craft of excellent writing. As well as dissolving into plenty of giggles.

In his assembly, Simon touched on more serious issues, giving us insight into LGBTQ history and how the experience of going to school whilst Section 28 was in place has motivated him to write the books he does today. He also spoke about the importance of all children and young people having access to books which not only reflect them but provide windows into lives and experiences that are different from their own.

A belief that we wholeheartedly share here at Croydon High and continually work to ensure our LRC provides.

All in all it was a funny, inspiring and thought-provoking day. Thank you, Simon!

If you would like to buy one of Simon’s books, they will be available to order via ParentPay until midday on Monday 4 March 2024.

Mrs Laura Tapsfield
Learning Resources and Innovation Hub Manager