Celebrating Stories of “I Am…” through self-expression

Now in its eighth year, Star LitFest continues as a celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community within National Star.  

Planned to coincide with the annual Cheltenham Literature Festival, this unique week at college offers a chance for students to learn about the power and creativity of words. Providing an opportunity for students with disabilities to share their diverse voices and experiences through different forms of self-expression.  

This year’s theme was ‘I am…’, one that explores identity, expression, and belonging through art, music, and words.  

Throughout the week, our campuses across Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and South Wales came alive with creative storytelling in all its forms. From students creating portraits, to poetry creation and sensory stories, every corner of the college echoed with self-expression.  

When asked what they enjoyed, student Louise shared: ‘I love design and feel inspired to make even better costumes’. Another shared: ‘I would like to thank you for Star LitFest, it was fun’.  

Each year, this celebration is made possible due to the commitment and hard work of staff. A special thanks to Kat Cavill, a Personalised Learning Coordinator/Tutor, who leads on organising and coordinating everything.  

Kat shared: ‘Each year Star LitFest continues to amaze me in how students and staff come together as a community. We are all storytellers, and Star LitFest creates opportunities to share our story in our own unique and curious way.’