Bring modern storytelling into your classroom with this creative writing sequence that uses contemporary twists on classic fairy tales to engage KS2 pupils. Across the unit, children discover how familiar characters and themes can be refreshed for twenty-first-century readers.

This comprehensive resource draws on extracts from the Author in Your Classroom podcast with Konnie Huq.

Short, carefully selected podcast extracts introduce each stage of learning throughout the unit. These clips give pupils direct insight into how a professional author and illustrator work, while encouraging them to see themselves as storytellers too.

What’s included?

This classroom-ready resource pack provides everything you need to deliver a structured narrative writing unit:

• A PowerPoint presentation featuring author quotes and discussion prompts
• An extract from Fearless Fairy Tales to model modern fairy-tale retellings
• Three planning sheets to support analysis, character development and story structure
• Working wall images and quotations to capture ideas and support shared learning

The materials are flexible and easy to adapt, making them ideal for KS2 English lessons, whole-class teaching or guided writing sessions.

Teaching overview

The unit runs across four linked sessions, guiding pupils from familiar stories to independent writing.

Children begin by revisiting traditional fairy tales and identifying key characters, settings and themes. They then use podcast extracts to explore how authors update these elements for a modern audience, using unexpected character choices, inclusive representation and humour.

Next, pupils plan their own reimagined fairy tales, focusing on how to surprise the reader while keeping the core story recognisable.

Finally, children draft, edit and improve a complete narrative, supported by peer discussion and reflection. By the end of the unit, pupils build confidence as writers and gain a deeper understanding of how stories can evolve while still honouring their origins.

How to listen

Search for Author In Your Classroom wherever you get your podcasts. A free resource pack is available with every episode.

Subscribe to hear more brilliant children’s authors share insider tips that help pupils write with confidence, purpose and flair.

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