Children's author opens new library at Leeds primary school

An aspiring children’s author has opened the new library at a Leeds primary school.

Andy Garside was invited by Fieldhead Carr Primary School in Whinmoor to read his new Bazil The Bean stories to their pupils and cut the ribbon on the new designated reading space which will be used by children from all classes to support their learning.

With the current huge interest in the World Cup, Andy enthralled the children with his ‘Bazil In The Cup Final’ book which sees the baked bean loving boy and his team mates prepare for their own crucial football match.

The Year 2 children were captivated as they heard about the school team reaching their cup final and Bazil finding himself right at the heart of the action, with added sound effects and interactive elements.

The children said: “It was so good having Andy in, his books are really funny… The Bazil the Bean books are so funny they make my belly tickle… My friends got to join in with the story which made the book even better.”

Julia Celik, assistant headteacher at Fieldhead Carr Primary, said: “We were incredibly lucky to welcome Andy into Fieldhead Carr to open our new library and share this special moment with both staff and pupils.

“His enthusiasm, energy and genuine love of reading shone through in his funny and relatable stories. Watching our pupils listen to Bazil and the Cup Final, smiling and giggling along, was a real joy.”

She added: “We cannot thank Andy enough for his kindness and support in helping us launch such an exciting new space for our school community.”

Andy said: “I try to make sure every Bazil The Bean story is full of laughter and fun to show the joy of friendship, adventure and discovery that is always important whatever your age and whatever your background.

”Each story aims to hold every child’s hand, showing them there is nothing to fear from any situation, and bringing them closer to the grown-ups around them. Being able to read my story to children at Fieldhead Carr, and see their enthusiasm, was a really proud moment.”

He added: “It was a huge honour to be able to open the new library, a space so essential to the love of reading with the opportunities that unlocks for all the children’s futures. I hope everyone enjoys using it and cherishes it for the future.”

2026 is the Year of Reading across the UK with the national theme being ‘Go All In’. Backed by the Department for Education and the National Literacy Trust, the campaign encourages people of all ages to rediscover the joy of reading by connecting books and stories with their existing hobbies and passions such as sports, music, cooking or sci-fi.

* Books are available to order online from: www.bazilthebean.co.uk