We were fortunate to have an author visit from Dan. He has an exquisite way with the students – they hung on his every word. Dan read a few passages from his book, his approach to this and talent had the audience gripping onto their imagination and craving more. I would encourage all Primary, Secondary and Further Education organisations to add Dan to their guest lists.

Nazmin MusaSupport Teaching & Learning/Early Years Lecturer, Nelson & Colne College

Working with Dan Worsley over the years has been a joy; there are very few people who show the same level of commitment to engage all children to listen, read and write! Needless to say, Dan is an extremely talented writer and storyteller, but what makes working with Dan special is his ability to inspire every child and adult in a room. Whether it is for a small family workshop or a whole school assembly, Dan delivers a magical experience for all.
Inviting Dan Worsley to work with Grundy Art Gallery has been really exciting, as we’re always testing out new ideas of how we can work together to put the children’s learning first. No task is too big or too small, no challenge unaccepted, because we know working together in Blackpool requires some trial and error. We’ve developed storytelling sessions in situ to secret code breaking workshops, all with the same objective: to bring the love of literacy and creativity together.

Taneesha AhmedEducation Officer, Grundy Art Gallery, Blackpool

Dan, Patron of Reading, Author in Residence – we cannot thank you enough for all the work you have put in at Boundary Primary. Nothing has been too much trouble over the year and you have gone above and beyond to motivate and inspire our children to read and write. From all the children and staff at Boundary – thank you and we look forward to more visits in the future!

Helen MoyesHeadteacher, Boundary Primary, Blackpool

In February and May 2024, I had the pleasure of collaborating with Dan to create a ground-breaking event that blended science fact with science fiction at two local libraries in Wigan. I was truly impressed by his amazing storytelling skills, which captivated children’s imaginations with wide-eyed wonder. Dan is simply fantastic to work with; he is organized, articulate, and a reliable communicator which is essential for getting the job done! His extensive skills and experience as a former teacher shine through, lending that professional touch to everything he does.

Dan’s organic and flexible approach allows him to adapt seamlessly to each environment and every audience, making him a joy to work with. His infectious enthusiasm, thought-provoking creativity, and meticulous attention to detail further enhance the experience of collaborating with him. I highly recommend working with Dan (who I call the man!), and he is a true gem in our community.

Wendy CotterillEngagement Officer, STFC at Daresbury Laboratory
Dan is an absolute gem! We have had the pleasure of hosting Dan a number of times at our school, and I would not hesitate in getting him back in, or recommending his work to others. Dan inspired the children in Nursery to dress as pirates and made the year 6 kids belly laugh. He can reach any age and pull them into his stories.
My favourite Dan memory involves a boy with additional needs, who can struggle with many situations, but whose face lit up with joy during his classes session and even had the courage to ask a question. The fact these two have reconnected since and this child lights up, when discussing Dan is a testament to his skill and passion. Thank you, Dan for being amazing.
Laura ReidOrmsgill Primary, Barrow-in-Furness

A verbal Van Gogh who painted pictures with words! A great day of fun writing.

Stockton Heath Primary School, Warrington

We were fortunate to have an author visit from Dan recently. He has such a lovely manner with the children – they hung on his every word and still talk about his stories and the writing tips they learned from him!
His enthusiasm for creative writing combined with his love of telling impossible tales make him a fascinating guest, whose energy and enthusiasm for his work captures the imaginations of our pupils.
Dan has a natural ability to communicate to children of all ages and abilities. I have been amazed and impressed at the standard of work the pupils achieved during the morning’s work – not only does he improve the pupils’ standards of writing, but their attitudes to and enjoyment of writing is enhanced as well.
I would encourage all primary and secondary schools to add Dan to their guest lists as I can guarantee they will NOT be disappointed!

David SherriffHeadteacher, Lowton St Mary's CE Primary, Leigh

The children were spellbound today with a visit from amazing author Dan Worsley. Dream chasing and the resilience to achieve goals inspired everyone as we all alternated from being open-mouthed to creased with laughter. He made anything seem possible.

Rachel ShieldsBryning with Warton St. Paul's C of E Primary School

Rubber gloves and cow pats! How could Year 7 not enjoy Dan’s stories? Even at the end of a long week they were sitting on the edge of their seats in anticipation. Dan’s books are always out on loan from the library, engaging readers and supporting our ethos of reading for pleasure. We look forward to seeing you again next year Dan, for more hilarious tales which inspire our young people to pick up a book.

Lorna ClempsonLearning Resource Manager, Fleetwood High School
Dan is fantastic. His ability to engage the children (and teachers) with his story telling is effortless. His journey from ‘ordinary Blackpool lad’ to children’s author and story teller is inspirational, and demonstrates to the children the power of resilience and perseverance.
I cannot recommend Dan highly enough. If your young writers need inspiring then Dan’s your man!
Nancy SharplesBriercliffe Primary School, Burnley