North west Comino Consortium & Manchester Poetry Library work with 9 secondary schools in the North West, including The East Manchester Academy, Abraham Moss Community School and Pioneer House. Our annual Poet in Residence programme creates unique opportunities for pupils and teachers to engage with poetry in transformative ways fostering lasting partnerships with cultural and creative organisations across Manchester. Working with Chethams Library, HOME, Manchester Art Gallery, Manchester Central Library, Science & Industry Museum, RHS Bridgewater, The Royal Exchange, & The Whitworth we engage hundreds of young people with the power of poetry and language. 

Children, who are often natural poets, benefit greatly from opportunities to engage with poetry and work with emerging poets who share their enthusiasm and passion. This connection encourages pupils to express their ideas and opinions, explore their creativity, and build confidence, all while finding inspiration to write, perform, and create. 

In 2024/25 Comino Poets in Residence were paired with a North West Comino school and a regional cultural partner. Together with support from the Comino Foundation and Manchester Poetry Library colleagues, they developed nine bespoke projects inspired by the theme “Our World, Our Future.”  

Celebrating achievement is a key aspect of this programme. Pupils’ work is being currently showcased in schools, at cultural partner venues, and at the Manchester Poetry Library, providing a platform for others to appreciate and celebrate their creativity. 

“We have all witnessed firsthand what can be achieved when students are given the tools to express their thoughts through poetry. The project has had a profound impact on our young people. It has connected the group not only with each other, but also with themselves, their heritage, and their views on what matters most in their lives.” Teacher