SCHOOL TALKS

Alongside Read NZ and talks for the New Zealand Book Awards, I have delivered a wide range of school visits, talks, and hands-on workshops for students of all ages.

I love the opportunity to interact with children and young people of all ages, and always come away feeling inspired by the imagination, curiosity, and enthusiasm they bring.

My talks and workshops can be tailored to suit different age groups and settings — from short author talks, to longer interactive drawing or storytelling sessions, through to longer-term residencies. I’m always happy to adapt content to suit your students, curriculum links, or special themes.

Testimonials

Having author and illustrator Rob Foote as our artist in residence was an absolute privilege for our kura!  Every class participated in daily workshops, and it was wonderful to see so many of our neurodiverse learners thriving, completely in their happy place as they explored storytelling and illustration. 

Rob also included our gifted and talented students in a special afternoon programme, giving some lucky tamariki the chance to attend two workshops in one day! The children adored Rob, and many named his visit as the highlight of their year in our recent annual survey. 

We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Rob to any school considering this incredible opportunity and can’t wait to welcome him back next year!

EMMA KNOPP - Principal Bradford School

Rob’s book Samples from the Lab has been a huge hit in our school Library. With its clever and humorous storyline and illustrations, the book has reached a wide audience. It was, then, our pleasure to invite Rob to participate in our school’s Book Week. Meeting Rob was a treat. His warmth and sense of fun immediately engaged our audience of Year 9 students who then went on to craft their own artwork and short written text under Rob’s guidance. Rob’s workshop included a great range of tips and tricks well-suited to the level of our students, who all really responded to him as he roved to interact and offer sound advice. His positivity toward young people was evident in the way he encouraged students to bring their vision to life. We are grateful to Rob for his expertise and his ability to connect with this teenage audience, and would welcome him back to our school community with ease.

SARAH RANBY - Librarian St Hilda's Collegiate School

Our class loved the talk. One child commented while walking back to class that they just wanted to draw for the rest of the day!Our class went back and drew their own creations. They loved playing around with words and drawing their imaginations. All children engaged.

AYLEEN HUNTER - Librarian Clutha Valley School

If you or your school, library, or organisation would like to discuss a visit, please feel free to get in touch — I’d love to hear from you.