The award-winning writer of children’s picture books Parsley Rabbit’s Book about Books, A Rat in a Stripy Sock and Goodnight, Mice! shared writing tips and her passion for reading with pupils.

Coal & Allied community relations manager NSW Shannon Garcia said the company was excited to provide the chance for students to engage with successful authors like Ms Watts.

“We understand how important it is to offer pupils with these opportunities as they are instrumental in motivating and engaging them in reading,” she said.

“The Mount Thorley Warkworth, Hunter Valley Operations, Bengalla and Mount Pleasant Project site donation committees donated a combined $10,000 to bring Frances Watts to the Upper Hunter.

“We would like to thank Jenna Hunt from Singleton Heights Public School and Lisa Wilson from St James’ Primary School in Muswellbrook for their help in organising Frances’ visit.

“This is the sixth year that we have partnered with our local schools to support Upper Hunter Book Week. 

“It is one of the initiatives supported by Coal & Allied to help develop confident and capable young people as part of our commitment to 

building the skills capacity and sustainability of communities where we operate.”