Write modern fairy tales with Konnie Huq (episode 25)

Bring contemporary storytelling into your classroom with this creative writing unit, which uses modern twists on classic fairy tales to inspire KS2 pupils.

Throughout the unit, children explore how familiar characters and stories can be refreshed for today’s readers, making traditional tales feel relevant and exciting.

This fully resourced sequence features selected extracts from the Author in Your Classroom podcast with Konnie Huq. Carefully chosen clips introduce each stage of the unit, giving pupils a window into how a professional author and illustrator approach storytelling, while encouraging them to see themselves as creators too.

Teaching overview

The unit is structured across four connected sessions, guiding pupils from analysing familiar tales to writing their own original stories.

Pupils begin by revisiting classic fairy tales, identifying key characters, settings, and themes. Using podcast extracts, they explore how authors modernise these elements, incorporating unexpected character choices, humour and inclusive representation.

Pupils then plan their own reimagined fairy tales, focusing on surprising the reader while keeping the essence of the original story. Finally, children draft, edit and refine a complete narrative, supported by discussion and reflection with peers.

By the end of the unit, pupils will gain confidence in their writing and develop a deeper understanding of how stories can evolve while honouring their origins.