March 11th, 2026
As part of its World Book Day celebrations, Partou invited published authors to inspire children through storytelling and a shared love of books. Read more about the experience.
We were delighted to celebrate World Book Day by inviting two popular children’s authors to read from their published works at nurseries in the north and south of the country.
At Partou Playtime in Shepperton, Matt Newnham – known for his engaging stories that skilfully merge literature, STEM and communication skills for early learners – read extracts from one his books, ‘Space Ranger Fred and ‘The Shoelace Adventure.’
And at Partou Cherubs in Sale, John J. Cassidy – an author particularly familiar to Partou team members – read from his book ‘Zoz Saves Planet Blop’ which centres on a small, friendly alien who travels from the polluted Planet Blop to Earth. With a career spanning more than two decades in the early years and childcare sector, John combines writing with his role as Partou’s Talent Acquisition Manager.
Partou purchased copies of both authors’ books to gift to the children as a prized memento of their special World Book Day.
John J. Cassidy said:
“It was a pleasure to visit Partou Cherubs on World Book Day.
“Reading has been incredibly important in my life and inspired me to become an author.
“Having the opportunity to read ‘Zoz Saves Planet Blop’ to the children and see the smiles on their faces was delightful.
“I hope it will encourage them to further develop their appreciation of the everyday joy that books bring.”
Samantha Rhodes, Partou Managing Director, said:
“We are hugely grateful to John and Matt for taking the time out to give the children such a treat.
“While we make an extra effort to celebrate books on World Book Day in a meaningful, inclusive and child‑led way, storytelling is embedded in everything we do each day as an integral part of our curriculum.
“Rather than focusing on costumes, at Partou settings around the country we highlight the importance of access to books, the joy of storytelling and the ways we weave reading into children’s learning.
“By prioritising meaningful experiences with books, we ensure that every child has the opportunity to develop a deep and lasting connection with reading.
“The presence of published authors at Cherubs and Playtimes added real excitement and a true sense occasion for the children and team members.
“It was a World Book Day which will live long in the memory for them all.”
We are delighted to welcome Dr Karen Boardman to Partou as our Group SEND and Inclusion Lead.
Read more about Karen's expertise and passion for SEND and Inclusion in early year education and care.
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