This autumn, Arkwood Living brought the wonders of storytelling to Manea Primary School in Cambridgeshire, close to the housebuilder’s stunning development, The Osiers. The housebuilder also donated £200.00 towards the school to go towards the purchase of new books for the pupils.
Professional storyteller Marion Leeper, who is Cambridge’s first official Bard and a regular performer at schools, festivals and museums, visited the school to share folk and fairy tales with pupils across Foundation, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.
SWP-25-(18) Marion Leeper (Centre), with Teaching Assistant Kelly Wayman and the pupils from Manea Primary School
Across the day, Marion shared a range of traditional tales linked by the theme of home, from a lively African story about a frog sneaking into a lion’s house to riddles from the UK and beyond. Reception pupils enjoyed interactive, sensory stories filled with props and participation, while older children were treated to Fenland legends, tongue-twisters, and wisdom tales. Each session combined humour, imagination, and moral insight, bringing together stories from around the world in a celebration of community and creativity.
Headteacher of Manea Primary School Nicky Froggatt said, “The children were absolutely enthralled by Marion’s stories. It was a wonderful opportunity to see their imaginations come alive, and we’re grateful to Arkwood Living for making it possible.”
Andrew Dewberry, Managing Director at Arkwood Living, said, “It’s fantastic to see pupils engage so enthusiastically with storytelling. At Arkwood Living, we believe that strong communities are built on education and creativity, and we’re proud to contribute to that through events like these.
“We often establish our developments close to high-quality local schools like this one because we aim to create communities that are vibrant and connected. Just as reading offers a personal journey, we believe a home is a place where individuals and families can craft their own stories.”
Located on Edwards Way, The Osiers offers a range of thoughtfully designed two-, three- and four-bedroom homes, as well as two-bedroom bungalows, all fitted with air source heat pumps, electric car chargers, quality flooring and integrated kitchen appliances as standard. With prices from £200,000, the development combines modern, sustainable living with the rural charm of Manea.
Residents can enjoy a peaceful rural setting with excellent transport links to Ely, Cambridge and Peterborough via the local train station. Essential amenities including a primary school, local shops, and the scenic Manea Pit Nature Reserve, are all close by.
For more information or to arrange a tour of the showhome, contact William H Brown Estate Agents on 01354 654545 or email theosiers@williamhbrown.co.uk.