A Chart-Topping Visit: Rev Richard Coles Inspires Topsite!

It isn’t every day our hall on Topsite plays host to a bona fide pop star, a priest, and a best-selling author all at once. However, pupils in Year 5 and Year 6 were treated to exactly that today when Reverend Richard Coles dropped by for a truly unforgettable afternoon of stories, songs, searching questions and signing of books. 

The Reverend visited to discuss his transition into the world of children’s literature. He spoke passionately about the power of storytelling, sharing the inspiration behind his latest book, A Heist Before Bedtime. His 12 short stories are all based on real-life ‘heists’ across the world, such as the very sneaky bear - Hank The Tank - who stole honey and Nutella from houses throughout Lake Tahoe, California. The students were captivated as he described how his love of the mystery genre has also helped him create colourful characters in his other series of books.

Following the talk, our upper Key Stage 2 students showed off their investigative skills. Richard was faced with a "considered" grilling that would make most journalists nervous! Pupils asked about his favourite books, his experience on I’m A Celeb, and what it was like to be a pop star.

Richard noted that he was impressed by the thoughtfulness of the questions, praising the students for their engagement and curiosity.

The highlight of the afternoon for many staff and students alike came when Richard sat down at the keyboard to treat the audience to a rendition of “Don’t Leave Me This Way” with some help from the children! 

After the music ended, he stayed behind to personally hand out signed copies of his new book to the children. The students were delighted to meet him individually, and there were plenty of smiles as they clutched their new treasures. 

Rev Richard’s visit has left the school buzzing with excitement. Not only did the children learn about the inspirations behind a book, but they were also reminded that a career, and a life, can have many different, exciting chapters.

We would like to extend a huge thank you to Reverend Richard Coles for his time, his music, and his stories. We'd also like to thank Linghams Booksellers for organising Richard's visit.

Rev Richard Coles Visits Topsite!