Word Play FAQs

1. What do the sessions look like?

Word Play presents children’s authors in talks tailored to their age group and stage of learning. Students have the opportunity to engage directly with authors during Q&A, and after the session meet the writers to have their books signed.  

2. Can parents come with their children?  

Yes. Parents can attend a session if they purchase a Word Play ticket.

3. Can student teachers come as professional development? 

Yes. Please see the Teachers Professional Development page for suggestions.

4. Can I book into a session recommended for different age groups? 

Yes, if you feel this is a better fit for your students. The suggested age range guides you to the content and delivery style of each session, so for typical classes we recommend sticking with the suggested age groups or +/- one grade level. 

5. Does the Word Play Online pass include the online teacher PD sessions? 

Yes. Please see the Teachers Professional Development page for suggestions. 

6. How do I watch Word Play Online? 

You will be able to stream the videos and download the PDF resources from May 3. All purchased sessions will appear in your account for streaming any time. You can project this to view as a class, but please do a test first as some school systems block video content from outside sources. You will be able to access content in your account until the end of term 4. 

7. How do I access tickets? 

Tickets will be emailed along with your booking confirmation. For large groups, you don’t need to print every individual ticket, the main booking page with booking number and scan code will be accepted. You can also save to your phone. 

8. What if we have more teachers coming than is afforded to us by the complimentary tickets? 

Extra teacher tickets can be purchased at the student price. 

9. Can I drop my child off and go to a different session/ sit outside? 

Older children may access high school sessions unaccompanied at parent discretion. 

10. Can books be purchased? 

Students are able to purchase their favourite Festival titles on site at the SLQ Library Shop.  

Want to jump the queue? Selected Word Play books can be pre-ordered online at shop.slq.qld.gov.au for collection on the day. Call the Library Shop on 07 3840 7576 for information on pre-ordering. 

11. What can students bring? 

No backpacks please! All large school bags must be left on the bus. We suggest bringing a small tote bag instead. A cloakroom is available for lunch boxes only. BWF is not responsible for any loss or damage to property brought on-site. 

Students should bring a small tote bag, clipboard, paper/notebook, a pencil and a pen. Some sessions involve writing and drawing activities. 

12. What’s for lunch? 

Students are allocated half an hour for lunch between sessions. Students are encouraged to bring their own food and drinks. Bubblers are located on-site for water bottle refills.  

Food and drinks may be purchased from The Library Café, but cannot be consumed within the State Library of Queensland. 

13. Will photos be taken? 

BWF photographers will be on-site throughout Word Play to capture proceedings. These photos may be used in BWF marketing material. The purchase of a ticket implies permission for photos to be used for these purposes.  

14. Who is Love YA suitable for? 

We recommend Love YA for ages 15+. Please contact program@bwf.org.au for further information.