Created by Harley Swan and Lara Owen, Year 12 students at Newark Academy

This story is inspired by the eagle lectern at St Mary Magdalene. It was created as part of a Work Experience placement, where students were challenged to create a story that would encourage children to explore St Mary’s. If you’d like to find out more about our about our amazing building, drop in for a visit or book a place on one of our regular heritage tours!

It’s Goldie the golden eagle’s big race today. He’s feeling very eager and confident. He is sure he’s going to win the race.

Goldie is racing against all the birds of the land, but he believes he’s going to be the one to win it all.

Goldie sees his competition: Lawren, a small wren.

“You’re not going to win this race, you’re too small and weak,” said Goldie rudely.

This makes Lawren really upset. She starts to think that maybe she will not race today. However, she decides to carry on and do the race!

Goldie eagerly lines up with all the others to start the race. On your marks… Get set… Go!!

All the birds race off. Goldie is in first place. Lawren is far behind. Lawren remembers what Goldie said and uses it to push harder.

Goldie and Lawren are now head to head with the finish line not far now. Lawren swiftly overtakes Goldie and wins the race. The crowd cheers while Lawren celebrates her victory!

Goldie sees all the celebration and is upset. He feels embarrassed that he made fun of Lawren and lost.

He goes to Lawren and says, “I’m sorry, I shouldn’t have made fun of you earlier; that was some good flying back there!”

“It’s okay,” says Lawren, “maybe next time you’ll win.”

They both hug and decide to put aside their differences.

“How about we both be friends,” asked Goldie.

Lawren says, “Of course we can, hopefully you can keep up with me,” as she flys off.

Goldie chuckles: “Wait up!”

They both fly off, bestest of friends.

THE END

Goldie’s Big Race

St Mary’s Reawakened