News

Mayor launches school storytelling initiative to connect with young people across city and district

14 September 2026

The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council has launched a new storytelling initiative that will see her visit primary schools across the City and District to share stories with P1 and P2 pupils and inspire a love of reading.

The initiative will provide opportunities for children to engage with books in a fun and interactive way while encouraging imagination, creativity, and language development.

Over the coming months, the Mayor, Cllr Grace Uí Niallais, will travel to schools throughout the Council area, reading a selection of stories and meeting pupils. The initiative was launched on Friday 11th September when the Mayor visited St Oliver Plunket’s Primary School in Strathfoyle. Pupils in Primary one and two were treated to a number of Julia Donadlson stories read by the Mayor on Friday morning.

Speaking about the initiative, Mayor Uí Niallais, said, “I was delighted to officially launch this initiative, and I am really looking forward to getting out to many more primary schools across the city and district throughout my year in office. Reading is such an important part of a child’s development, and I hope these sessions will create lasting memories and inspire a lifelong love of books.

“Stories have a unique ability to spark imagination and get small minds working. I really hope the young people enjoy these visits as much as I will.”

Schools participating in the initiative will have the opportunity to engage directly with the Mayor in a relaxed and enjoyable setting, helping to create a positive and memorable experience for pupils.

The first visits are now underway, with schools across the Council area taking part throughout the Mayor's term of office.