COMPETITION winners at a Bradford school were given the chance to visit the city's iconic Waterstones store to purchase a book of their choice with published author Mariam Ansar. 

Carlton Bolling on Undercliffe Lane, in the Bowling and Barkerend ward of Bradford, held a competition for students to write a review of their favourite book, TV show or magazine, in recognition of a teacher having her book published. 

Mariam Ansar, an English teacher at the school had her debut novel 'Good For nothing' published earlier this month and students were able to get their hands on a copy in-store.

Competition winners, Rehan Hussain, Areej Kynath, Fariha Mustafa and Uzair Usman visited the bookshop on Friday, March 17, 2023.

The students were keen to express their thoughts on what it was like to be taught by an author.

Areej from Year 7 said: “It’s exciting knowing that one of the teachers in Carlton is an author and we get the opportunity to read the book."

Uzair from Year 9, said: “It’s more exciting because you’re an expert in your field and we can learn from you in so much more detail.”

The children wrote about a range of books and TV shows including, the Maze Runner, Diary of a Wimpy Kid, Five Nights of Freddy and The K2.

Mohammed Azum, Headteacher at Carlton Bolling said: “Mariam is a great role model for our students and her journey has been inspirational.

"The Academies vision is to have uncompromising aspirations for all and to be an exciting and inspiring community of lifelong learners and to have staff, who our students can relate to and support our vision.

“There is a greater emphasis on reading and the long-lasting impact it has on our pupil’s lives after they school therefore providing writing opportunities such as this competition is key.

“As a school, we are proud of Mariam's achievement and we are excited about her future endeavours.”