Learn from some of the world's most exciting literary talents
Our Secondary School Days program is designed to inspire and challenge students through thoughtful discussion of literature and ideas over four 45-minute sessions.
This year, we're excited to feature one new special venue: The Pavilion Performing Arts Centre, Sutherland. We hope this new venue will give your school another convenient option for joining us on the day.
Our outstanding line-up of brilliant and renowned authors features Jeremy Lachlan, Jason Reynolds, Jane Godwin and Lili Wilkinson, in a thrilling day led by Lauren Draper.
Secondary School Days is programmed with students in Years 7 to 10 in mind but is suitable for all high-school students.
To discover everything you need to know about this exceptional program, you can:
- Keep reading below
- Download our brochure
- Access a one-page, quick-read program
Timetable
- 9.30am Arrive at venue
- 10am Morning sessions
- 11.30am Lunch break
- 12.30pm Afternoon sessions
- 2pm Finish
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are $29 per student (there is one free teacher ticket per 20 paying students) and $29 per additional teacher.
Tickets to Sydney Town Hall are free for secondary schools with an ICSEA value under 1000. You can check your school's ICSEA value at the My School website. Free tickets are limited so we recommend booking early.
Please book using our online form.
The Program
JEREMY LACHLAN: ON INSPIRATION
Jane Doe is back and bigger than ever. Jane Doe and the Quill of All Tales marks the start of a brand-new action-adventure duology – and you can join Jeremy Lachlan to hear how it all began! The farmlands of Griffith, NSW – where Jeremy was born and raised – are a huge leap away from Bluehaven, the Manor and the Otherworlds. So where do his stories come from, how does he nurture his creativity and what does it take to craft an epic blockbuster?
JASON REYNOLDS: ON AUTHENTICITY
Bestselling author and Newbery Award Honoree Jason Reynolds’ novels are unfailingly compelling, compassionate and timely, and always feature a wide array of exciting, diverse characters. He speaks about writing and literature with a passion that is both electrifying and infectious. In this session, Jason shares his love for storytelling while delving into topics like authenticity, connection and imagination. He’ll challenge and encourage students to create and share their own stories.
JANE GODWIN: ON DEVELOPMENT
Jane Godwin writes across all ages, from picture books to YA fiction. She also had a long career as a publisher, helping other writers make their books the best they can be. One thing Jane’s learnt is that there’s no formula for writing a successful story – but she can share how she develops her ideas, often starting from incidental episodes or small observations in her own life. Learn how Jane blends characters, plot and narrative tension to build dramatic and truthful tales that tackle the tough subjects.
LILI WILKINSON: ON CREATIVITY
Lili Wilkinson’s many books cross multiple ages and genres including tense thrillers and heartfelt dramas. Her latest YA novel, A Hunger of Thorns, is the first volume in a fantasy series about witches. Lili discusses the creative process and what attracts her to each new and varying project. Find out how she creates these rich and expansive worlds, and how she stops them from bleeding into each other.
For more information about Secondary School Days, please contact us:
