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Latest news and stories – September 2024

Don't forget, we want to know what you think about both the membership programme and The Storytelling Bible. Share your views by clicking on this link and help us to shape the future of Open the Book.

Farewell from Ruth

We’ve just come to the end of a fantastic summer of sport and like many, I’ve been inspired by the stories of sacrifice, dedication and resilience. But for so many athletes, their stories don’t end as they’d have wanted. Only a few win the title; only a few get that gold medal. However, they all have thanks to give. Thanks for family and friends who got them there physically, emotionally and mentally, to their teams who made it possible, and to the fans who cheered them on their way.

So, as I say goodbye to the Open the Book family this September, I would like to say thank you.

Thank you to the early pioneers who had a dream and gave it life.

Thank you to the Storytellers for their powerful stories, their kindness and prayers and for making my training sessions possible. 

Thank you to the volunteer trainers who are absolute stars, spreading the joy and light of OtB wherever they go and equipping Storytellers on their journeys.

Thank you to my colleagues who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make everything happen and have such a heart for what they do. 

Thank you to Bob who wrote the OtB stories that are reaching thousands of children around the world with the good news about Jesus. 

And ultimately, my biggest thank you goes to the Great Author, God, whose story gives everyone hope and life.

God bless you all.

Ruth

Makaton for assemblies

We’ve had lots of enquiries about the Makaton videos showing the signs for the new stories. We’re really excited about this addition to the programme too and are looking forward to the videos being available in early 2025. In the meantime, look out for some special online Makaton workshops so you can get started making your assemblies as inclusive as possible. If you have any questions about the Makaton signs, please contact [email protected]

Opportunities for training and development

Makaton Workshop dates – on Zoom

Tuesday 1 October 2024, 9.00–9.30 am

Wednesday 30 October 2024, 10.00–10.30 am

Thursday 21 November 2024, 1.00–1.30 pm

Wednesday 4 December 2024, 2.00–2.30 pm

Core Training dates – in person

Tuesday 1 October 2024, 10.00 am–1.00 pm, Thirsk

Monday 25 November 2024, 10.00 am–1.00 pm, York

Refresher Training dates – in person

Wednesday 14 May 2024, 10.00 am–1.00 pm, Swindon (includes a drama workshop)

Core Training dates – on Zoom

Thursday 3 October 2024, 10.00 am–1.00 pm [Fully booked]

Thursday 10 October 2024, 10.00 am–1.00 pm [Fully booked]

Monday 14 October 2024, 10.00 am–1.00 pm [Fully booked] 

Monday 4 November 2024, 10.00 am–1.00 pm [Fully booked]

Thursday 28 November 2024, 10.00 am–1.00 pm

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