Ellis, aged 10, who has cerebral palsy, turns up every World Book Day in an amazing costume, and this year dressed as Jack from Walliams’ 2015 book Grandpa’s Great Escape, converting his wheelchair into a spitfire.
The photograph was shared on David Walliams’ Instagram, dubbed his ‘favourite picture from World Book Day’, and received more than 28k likes from followers.
The post can be found here: https://www.instagram.com/p/CasoHbBLUcN/
As Ellis absolutely adores his grandparents, he was so excited to be able to dress up as one of his favourite book characters together with his grandpa and put a smile on people’s faces.
Nicola Dodds, principal at Ingfield Manor, said: “We’re delighted that David Walliams loved Ellis’ costume just as much as we did, and shared it so all his followers could enjoy it too.
“At Ingfield Manor, we believe it’s important that all children see themselves represented in the world around them and feel empowered to emulate the characters from the stories they love.
“The children love the humour of David Walliams’ stories, so it was really special that he took the time to acknowledge one of our students’ brilliant costumes.”
Ellis’ mum, Una, said: “I was so pleased that Ellis’ costume got such a positive result. It was fun to create and his real grandad even got in on the act, helping me to take Ellis to school. Huge thanks to Ingfield Manor for always making the day fun for all.”
Ingfield Manor School’s World Book Day theme was ‘books that make you feel happy’ and focused on the positive wellbeing effects that books and reading have on us. All of the students and staff enjoyed celebrating their favourite books and stories and getting dressed up in their best costumes.
Ingfield Manor School is a non-maintained special school for pupils aged 3–19 with neurological motor impairment such as cerebral palsy with a focus on conductive education. Pupils have a range of abilities and associated learning difficulties arising from cerebral palsy and other disabilities. Some students also have additional needs like visual impairments, hearing impairments and more complex medical needs.
The school is part of the Ambito Education group, managed by Salutem Care and Education, which provides education and support for disabled children and young people, promoting independence, skills and confidence.
