testimonials

We have been lucky enough to receive hundreds of expressions of support and encouragement. Here are a few recent examples from people who know our work.

“The Story Museum is a charity which unlocks story and literature for children, teachers and parents. I have absolute faith in the team spearheading this project: not just in their ideas but in their ability to deliver on those ideas. This team will deliver a world class museum to Oxford that will become a destination for not just local children but national and international families too. Working with them has been an entirely positive experience." Major funder

“Stories have always been a very vital part of my world, so a museum devoted to encouraging children to read and enjoy stories seems a wonderful idea. It’s especially fitting that it’s based in Oxford, which from Lewis Carroll onwards has always been associated with brilliant children’s literature.” Jacqueline Wilson

"The Story Museum is a strong and excellent concept which will have a great appeal to a very wide range of people."  Sir Neil Chalmers, warden of Wadham College and former director of the Natural History Museum, London

"The Arts Council's investments to date in the Story Museum have paid handsome dividends in terms of delivering and fulfilling our own priorities for children and young people. The organisation's willingness to listen and development of stimulating partnerships while sticking to its own fabulous vision is exemplary and we have been enormously impressed by the team's strategic grasp and creative zest. We have considerable hopes for the Story Museum." Keiren Phelan, literature officer, Arts Council England, South East

“The Story Museum will be a wonderful gift from Oxford, where so many stories have begun, to the whole world.” Philip Pullman

"Oxford has been home to so many of England's best-loved writers for children; this new museum will forge and celebrate their links to new generations of child readers." Dr Diane Purkiss, writer and fellow of Keble College, Oxford

“The Story Museum is an inspiring organisation working towards establishing a centre for children's story in a city which is an undoubted world centre for children's literature. In advance of building their centre they do exemplary programmes with children and families ... I’ve been extremely impressed with the quality of their work to date.” Sarah Maxfield, chief executive, Oxford Inspires

“Our school is very excited and inspired by our work with the Story Museum.  It  has had an outstanding effect on our teachers and children, creating wonder, excitement and engagement in our school through the magic of story.  We are delighted that the Story Museum is creating a permanent visitor centre in the city. Our children will definitely be regular visitors to the building, adding more stimulation and inspiration for our students, staff and parents.” Jo Milham, head teacher St John Fisher Primary, Blackbird Leys, Oxford

“As a partner of the Story Museum we now have storytelling in the classroom, in the playground and out in the trips to the woods. We know how important these experiences are for our children and are delighted that soon there will be a place where our children can visit stories, a place where the magic of stories can come true for them in a deeper and special way. The Story Museum will be a special place which children like ours really need. Stories have given so much to our children already and the Story Museum building will enrich them even more. Every child in Pegasus deserves the magic of the Story Museum.” Jill Hudson, head teacher, Pegasus School, Blackbird Leys, Oxford

“Your stirling work continues to have a huge impact in Devon, for which we truly thank you.” Jo Dymond, primary strategy consultant (literacy), Devon County Council

"On this housing estate there is a culture of under-achievement with low expectations about what school can offer. Most adults have low aspirations and think that school opportunities are for other people. In this context just one experience of success and achievement can turn things round for a child. It is important for the Story Museum to keep on going with its sound involvement in disadvantaged areas and schools. They have found and developed a strong way to serve. There is a high need, and the prize will be greater because of this." Head teacher, Orchard Meadow Primary School, Blackbird Leys