2007 saw a change in direction for the annual ‘poetry in performance’ held at Haverstock School in February. Pupils from the six primary schools that make up linccs went it alone to celebrate their ‘Magical Words’. Also participating in the event, were guest poets from St. Paul’s Primary School.

Children’s writer and poet, Michael Rosen, presented special awards to Samsul Ullah from Richard Cobden and Saoirse Anderson from Primrose Hill.

As in previous years nearly 800 pupils from Carlton, Holy Trinity & St.Silas, Primrose Hill, Rhyl, Richard Cobden and St.Michael’s took part in the competition and worked hard to find a creative voice and form to express their ideas and feelings. The winning poems clearly demonstrate the magic and power of poetry.

LOSING MUM
by Samsul Ullah Year 5 Richard Cobden

I’m in trouble now.

I feel like I’m trapped

And the lock’s far away.

I can’t find my Mum.

Looking everywhere.

I’m small.

People don’t notice me.

I can’t find my Mum.

I go back to the shops,

Walk forwards, go back.

I remember what she is wearing.

I can’t find my Mum.

My mouth’s open

I’m looking around.

I hesitate.

I creep into a shop.

I pretend to look at toys.

I speak Bengali.

‘Can I buy this?’

THE SILENT SOUNDS OF THE HOUSE
by Saoirse Anderson Year 5 Primrose Hill

No slam of the door,

No scream of the baby,

No screech of the floor,

No-one saying, ‘Hello Lady,’

No more does the tiger roar,

I miss my voice.

I miss the church bell.

But all you see is people walking around

With chalkboards to speak on.