Neal Layton Workshop
The Children’s Bookshow allocates four free workshops for schools who attend a related theatre performance.

In this lively and fun workshop children will have the opportunity of working creatively with Neal Layton. Neal will start by talking about collage, and talk briefly about its history, showing some examples by artists. Neal will then introduce the book Stanley’s Stick, talking about Stanley’s imagination in the story, showing how he used collage in the book to describe an imaginary world. Then the children will make their own collage, cutting out and sticking to make a picture inspired by the natural world.
- Suitable for:
- Years 2, 3 and 4
The children were really pleased to have their own copy of Stanley’s Stick. They enjoyed the workshop and the opportunity to ask Neal questions. They enjoyed meeting “a real live author”.
What you need to know
- Length of workshop:
- Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes
- Location of workshop:
- We will come to your school
- Number of children:
- Workshops are for a class of 30 children
- Suitable for:
- Years 2, 3 and 4
Please note, a teacher must be present throughout the workshop
Materials needed
- Flipchart or whiteboard
- Pens and paper for the children
- Scissors and glue sticks
- old magazines for cutting up
- coloured paper (optional)
- Anything interesting from the class recycling bin!
- If the teachers have any time beforehand dried pressed leaves or flowers can also be used
Book a related theatre performance to be eligible for one of four free workshops
This workshop is allocated to a school attending a specific theatre performance with 30 or more children; visit the performance page to find out more and book:
Are these performances not in your area? See a list of all our events
About Neal Layton
Neal was born and raised in Chichester, West Sussex and whilst growing up spent much of his time playing in the dirt, making homemade catapults and drawing pictures. Although gaining a place to study science at University, he went to Art College instead studying BA Graphic Design at Newcastle, and MA Illustration at Central Saint Martins. His latest picture book A Climate in Chaos and how you can help was published by Wren and Rook in 2020.
On the day
- Please inform your school receptionist that our artist will be arriving so they can be welcomed warmly.
- A teacher must be present throughout the workshop.
- Make sure that all the materials that our artist has requested are ready and available.
- Please let us know if any of the children have particular requirements, and ensure that their normal carer is present.
- The offer of a cup of tea is often greatly appreciated!
Have any questions? Get in touch

Your contact for this performance is Katy Webster, she will be happy to answer any queries you have:
- katyw@thechildrensbookshow.com
- Phone
- 07904 068084