Grimm and Co is a Yorkshire-based charity that uses story telling and imagination to build confidence, creativity, and a love of learning in children and young people.
As part of Barnsley’s Great Childhoods Ambition, we're working in partnership with Grimm and Co to offer Barnsley primary schools the opportunity to take part in their unique story-making workshops.
What story-making workshops are
Story-making workshops are immersive, creative writing sessions delivered by Grimm and Co in their Emporium of Stories in Rotherham.
During the session, children:
bring a story to life as a group, guided by professional facilitators
experience a fun and interactive narrative, with contributions from fictional characters
see their ideas illustrated live during the session
write their own individual ending to the shared story
leave with their work published in their very own book
Sessions are designed to be imaginative, playful and engaging, helping children feel confident in expressing their ideas.
Watch the Grimm and Co overview for schools video on YouTube.
Why take part
Grimm and Co workshops are designed to support children’s development in a creative and inclusive way. Through taking part, children can:
build confidence, creativity and self-esteem
develop a positive attitude towards writing and learning
strengthen communication and collaboration skills
explore new ways of thinking and expressing ideas
feel proud of their work through a published outcome
These workshops are particularly effective at engaging reluctant writers by using a multi-sensory, immersive approach.
Who can take part
The sessions are suitable for key stage 2 children (recommended year 4), with a maximum class size of 30 pupils. One workshop per primary school is available (in the first instance).
What sessions include
Story-making sessions include:
a fully facilitated workshop led by Grimm and Co staff
support from trained volunteer story mentors
interactive storytelling and writing activities
live illustration
individual writing and a published book outcome
mid-morning refreshments for pupils and staff
Where and when sessions take place
Workshops take place at Grimm and Co – The Emporium of Stories, Ship Hill, Rotherham, S60 2HG. Sessions run from 9:30am to 12:00pm. Packed lunches can be enjoyed before departure.
Bookings are available on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings during term time in the academic year 2026/27.
Cost and funding support
One workshop per primary school is funded by the Great Childhoods Ambition. Schools need to make their own transport arrangements.
How to book
For any queries about a session, contact Grimm and Co at schools@grimmandco.co.uk.