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  • BookFest
  1. Home
  2. BookFest

BookFest

BookFest is a national event exclusively for Coram Beanstalk schools.

Take a look at the author events we have offered our partner schools over the last few years.

BookFest 2019

BookFest 2019

In 2019 we were delighted to offer our Coram Beanstalk partner schools in London the opportunity to see Rob Biddulph, Onjali Rauf, Samantha Baines or the Really Big Pants Theatre company! Read more

Published: 24th September, 2019

Updated: 27th October, 2021

Author: Kate- Loynes

BookFest 2018

BookFest 2018

For 2018 BookFest was even bigger and better! Last year were able to offer Coram Beanstalk children in Swindon, Northampton, Norfolk and London the opportunity to attend free author or performer events. We were so grateful for support from Norwich Puppet Theatre, Chickenshed Theatre, Francis Holland School SW1W and all the wonderful authors and performers who agreed to appear. Read more

Published: 13th September, 2018

Updated: 24th September, 2019

Author: Anonymised User

BookFest 2017

BookFest 2017

BookFest 2017 was held in October 2017 exclusively for Coram Beanstalk schools featuring Maz Evans and Alex T Smith. Schools also had the opportunity to see a special show of Suddenly! by Really Big Pants Theatre company at the Chickenshed Theatre. Read more

Published: 13th September, 2018

Updated: 19th August, 2019

Author: Anonymised User

BookFest 2016

BookFest 2016

BookFest 2016 was an event open to the public featuring Coram Beanstalk reading helpers Abi Elphinstone, Piers Torday and Polly Faber. Read more

Published: 12th September, 2018

Updated: 4th November, 2019

Author: Anonymised User

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Latest

  • July 2026

    July 2026

    Our Book of the Month for July is The Wilderness by Steve McCarthy - a beautifully illustrated story that encourages young readers to step outside and find an adventure. This, and the other Beanstalk Brilliant Books we've selected, is perfect for some outdoor adventures this summer...

  • Coram Beanstalk at The Big Lunch

    Coram Beanstalk at The Big Lunch

    Coram Beanstalk reading helpers were celebrated at The Big Lunch during Volunteer's Week in June, with an afternoon tea and some very special guests. Read more here...

  • June 2026

    June 2026

    This month, we’re hosting our next Virtual Author Event for Coram Beanstalk schools with award‑winning author Ben Davis! We’ve chosen his latest book, Postman Planet, as our Book of the Month for June and we've found a range of other Beanstalk Brilliant books featuring post or letters for you to explore...

  • Sir Michael Morpurgo OBE

    Sir Michael Morpurgo OBE

    Michael joined Coram Beanstalk as an Ambassador in November 2017 and continues to be an advocate for our work creating readers for pleasure.

Most read

  • Apply to volunteer

    Apply to volunteer

    Ready to take the first step to becoming a reading helper? Check that you can meet some basic practicalities and fill in our application form here.

  • Frequently asked questions

    Frequently asked questions

    You may have some questions in your mind before you fill in your application form. Here are answers to our most commonly asked questions. If your question isn't answered here you can find out how to get in touch with our team.

  • Where we work

    Where we work

    Coram Beanstalk offers different programmes across the UK. Find out where we work here.

  • The benefits of being a reading helper

    The benefits of being a reading helper

    We know from our volunteers that being a reading helper brings purpose and enjoyment into their lives. Find out more about the benefits of being part of our reading community here.

  • Our approach

    Our approach

    Find out more about how we work and our approach to reading support.

  • Thank you for applying to be a Coram Beanstalk reading helper

  • Literacy charities join forces

    Literacy charities join forces

    On 1st November 2017 Reading Matters merged with the national children’s literacy charity Beanstalk.

  • Current vacancies

    Current vacancies

    Click here to view our current vacancies.

  • Volunteer agreement

    Volunteer agreement

    Our volunteers represent the charity in the partner schools that we work with. It is a formal role with commitments and expectations from us and you. These are set out in our volunteer agreement and role description here.

  • Training and support

    Training and support

    We know our approach to reading works and love to share this with our volunteers to help them start sessions with confidence, and continue to learn as they get to know the children. Find out how here.

  • Follow our story

  • Become part of a community passionate about reading for pleasure and wellbeing and keep up to date with everything we’re working on.

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Copyright © 2026 Coram Beanstalk. Coram Beanstalk,
Coram Campus, 41 Brunswick Square, London, WC1N 1AZ.

  • Coram Beanstalk is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

  • Registered Charity No. 296454 (England and Wales).

  • Registered as a company limited by guarantee in England and Wales No. 2101719.

  • All images are from Coram Beanstalk’s stock image library and are for representation only.

  • Names in case studies have been changed to protect identities. All rights reserved.

Coram Beanstalk is proud to be a lead delivery partner for The National Year of Reading 2026! 
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