On a Saturday in April our school became a kingdom of books and literature. Pupils and teachers celebrated their love of reading through lessons and activities prepared in the classrooms and by Ms Klaudia, the school librarian. On the same day we brought the Chopin drawing competition to a close and awarded prizes to its participants.

Book sale, book swap and bookmarks

The day's programme included a book sale and swap, bookmark-making workshops and competitions. Pupils of all ages gathered around tables laden with books, and the photos also show children and teachers in book-themed costumes. In one of the classrooms, a screen displayed a reminder that 23 April is World Book and Copyright Day.

The day was established by UNESCO in 1995. The date is symbolic: it marks the deaths of two great writers, William Shakespeare and Miguel de Cervantes, who died in April 1616. For children growing up in Great Britain, contact with Polish books is especially important – it enriches their vocabulary and strengthens their bond with the language and culture of their parents.

Prizes in the Chopin drawing competition

An important part of the day was the conclusion of the competition for a drawing of Chopin – the patron of our school. The entries were displayed on exhibition boards in the classroom; among the drawings you can spot portraits of the composer and piano keyboards, among other things. The pupils who took part in the competition received certificates and prizes in front of their classmates and teachers.

Frederic Chopin (1810–1849), born in Żelazowa Wola, is one of the greatest composers in the history of music. Almost all of his works were written for the piano, and his mazurkas and polonaises have become a lasting part of Polish cultural identity.

Thank you to everyone who prepared this day and to all the competition participants. More photos can be seen in the gallery.