It was a superb day of storytelling, imagination, laughter, and STEM learning yesterday (14th May, 2026) as author and creator of Space Ranger Fred and the Shoelace Adventure, Matt Newnham, visited children at St Augustine’s Primary School in Scaynes Hill, Sussex, before heading on to an evening talk with the WI at Franklands Village in Haywards Heath.
The afternoon began with a lively reading and interactive STEM session for the Afterschool Club at St Augustine’s Primary School. Designed to engage a broad age range from KS1 through to KS2, Years 1 to 5, the session combined storytelling, humour, imagination, and hands-on discussion inspired by the world of Space Ranger Fred and the Great Galactic Bake Off and the wider Space Ranger Fred and the Umbrella Rescue series.
Children were encouraged to think creatively, ask questions, solve problems, and immerse themselves in the strange and often chaotic universe of Fred, Zando Centauri, and exploding space cakes. The session focused not only on reading for enjoyment but also on curiosity, confidence, communication, and learning through imagination.
Feedback from the school was immediate and enthusiastic.
“The children were so impressed. They came in this morning talking to their friends about it! Thank you so much for coming.”
— Vicky Jones, Club Organiser
Matt Newnham said:
“What I enjoy most is seeing children become completely absorbed in stories and ideas. The questions they ask are often brilliant because they are not afraid to think differently. Sessions like this are about making reading exciting while quietly introducing STEM thinking, creativity, and confidence.”
Following the school visit, Matt travelled to Franklands Village in Haywards Heath to speak to the WI in an evening presentation exploring how Space Ranger Fred and the Shoelace Adventure first came into existence.
The talk covered the unusual journey from idea to independently published children’s book series, the inspiration behind many of the characters and stories, and the realities of modern independent publishing. Guests also heard amusing behind-the-scenes stories about writing the books, developing the wider Space Ranger Fred universe, and how storytelling can connect generations of readers.
The evening concluded with book sales, discussions, and conversations with attendees, making it a successful and enjoyable event all round.
Matt Newnham is currently available for:
- School visits
- STEM storytelling sessions
- Literacy and reading events
- Library talks
- Festivals
- WI and community group presentations
- Corporate storytelling talks
More information can be found at:
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