Mike Garry Inspires Learners During Year of Reading Programme

Creative Reading and Writing Programme Delivers Lasting Impact Across Eight Establishments

Last week, acclaimed poet, author and performer Mike Garry delivered an inspiring programme of creative reading and writing activities across all eight establishments where Novus operate within the North East region. The initiative formed part of the wider Year of Reading campaign, supporting learners in custody to engage with literature, develop confidence and discover the power of their own voice.

Through a dynamic blend of performance, discussion, poetry, storytelling and practical writing activities, Mike created memorable learning experiences that resonated deeply with participants and staff alike.

Promoting Reading, Creativity and Personal Growth

The programme was designed to support a range of educational and personal development outcomes, including:

• Encouraging engagement with reading and writing
• Building confidence and communication skills
• Supporting self-expression and creativity
• Creating meaningful opportunities for achievement and participation
• Promoting reading for pleasure as a lifelong habit

Across every establishment visited, learners were encouraged to explore new ideas, reflect on their experiences and engage with literature in ways that felt accessible, relevant and empowering.

Exceptional Learner Engagement

One of the most striking outcomes of the programme was the consistently high level of learner engagement.

Participants described the sessions as inspiring, enjoyable and transformative. At HMP Full Sutton, learners referred to the visit as “one of the best things I’ve had in prison”, while learners at HMP Northumberland and HMP Holme House described the sessions as “brilliant” and “enthralling”.

Even in environments where engagement was initially more challenging, participation increased significantly as sessions progressed. At HMP Frankland, learners who were initially reluctant became actively involved, resulting in what staff described as one of the strongest sessions they had observed.

The programme successfully captured learners’ attention, encouraged meaningful participation and created positive learning experiences across a diverse range of cohorts.

Supporting the Year of Reading

A key focus of the programme was strengthening reading culture and encouraging learners to see reading as both enjoyable and beneficial.

Learners reported increased motivation to read, with many requesting book recommendations and borrowing reading materials following the sessions. One learner commented, “I’ve already borrowed Dracula,” while others reflected on the importance of books in helping people understand themselves and the world around them.

Staff also observed learners continuing conversations about reading after the events, taking books away with them, and requesting further opportunities to engage with literature.

These outcomes demonstrate the programme’s significant contribution to the Year of Reading, helping to promote reading for pleasure while encouraging learners to view books as tools for personal growth and self-development.

Building Confidence and Helping Learners Find Their Voice

Perhaps the most powerful impact of the programme was the confidence it inspired among participants.

Throughout the visits, learners shared personal writing, discussed life experiences and explored emotions through poetry and storytelling. Many discovered a new perspective on their own creative abilities.

One participant reflected: “I didn’t think of my writing as poetry… I can write poems.”

At establishments including HMP Frankland and HMP Durham, learners shared deeply personal reflections, creating moments that staff described as moving, authentic and powerful. At HMP Low Newton, staff observed noticeable increases in confidence and openness as sessions progressed.

By creating supportive and inclusive environments, the programme enabled learners to express themselves creatively while developing a stronger sense of identity and self-belief.

Developing Practical Literacy and Communication Skills

Alongside creative exploration, learners developed valuable literacy and communication skills through structured activities and collaborative discussion.

Activities included:

• Character development and storytelling exercises
• Poetry analysis and interpretation
• Creative writing workshops
• Vocabulary exploration
• Group discussion and reflection

Learners gained a greater understanding of language, discovered new approaches to writing and developed confidence in communicating their thoughts and ideas.

Many participants also reported appreciating the freedom to write creatively without feeling constrained by traditional rules, helping to remove barriers often associated with formal education.

A Delivery Style That Connects

Feedback consistently highlighted Mike Garry’s ability to connect with learners from a wide variety of backgrounds.

Staff praised his authenticity, relatability, humour and engaging delivery style, as well as his skill in managing group dynamics and encouraging participation.

Sessions were described as:

• Thought-provoking and impactful
• Empowering and purposeful
• Outstanding and exceptional

Mike’s ability to create a relaxed and respectful environment allowed learners to engage openly while feeling valued and heard.

Learner Feedback Highlights

Feedback collected across all eight establishments was overwhelmingly positive.

Common themes included:

• High levels of enjoyment and engagement
• Increased interest in reading and writing
• Appreciation for Mike’s honesty and authenticity
• Enjoyment of performance-based elements
• Requests for further sessions and creative opportunities
• Recognition of the value external practitioners bring to education in custody

Many learners reported learning something new and expressed a strong desire to continue their creative journey beyond the sessions.

Looking Ahead

While feedback was extremely positive, learners and staff consistently expressed a desire for longer-term engagement opportunities, including extended workshops, repeat visits and ongoing writing programmes.

There is also significant potential to build on the success of the programme through creative writing groups, learner showcases, publication opportunities and increased access to recommended reading materials.

These developments would allow learners to continue building on the confidence, skills and enthusiasm generated during the sessions.

A Powerful Example of Creative Enrichment in Custody

Overall, Mike Garry’s North East region visit was a highly successful programme that delivered meaningful educational and personal development outcomes.

Key achievements included:

• Outstanding learner engagement
• Increased enthusiasm for reading
• Enhanced confidence and self-expression
• Development of literacy and communication skills
• Lasting positive impact beyond the sessions themselves

The programme demonstrated how creative enrichment can play a vital role in education in custody, supporting not only literacy development but also emotional wellbeing, confidence and personal growth.

The strong demand for future delivery, combined with overwhelmingly positive feedback from learners and staff, provides clear evidence of the value that creative practitioners bring to rehabilitation and educational engagement.

As the Year of Reading continues to inspire learners across the estate, programmes such as this highlight the transformative power of literature, creativity and self-expression in helping individuals realise their potential.

Gor more information on other reading releated projects here at Novus, visit our new section.