A Storytelling Chair for Rhayader School Eisteddfod

A Storytelling Chair for Rhayader School Eisteddfod

Every year, schools across Wales celebrate language, music and storytelling through the cherished tradition of the Eisteddfod. At Rhayader Church in Wales Primary School, this year's celebration was made even more memorable with the arrival of a bespoke handcrafted storytelling chair — designed especially for the occasion.

A Special Commission

Earlier this year we heard from Linda Crockett, Headteacher at Ysgol Rhaeadr Gwy, who was looking for a chair that could become the centrepiece of their school Eisteddfod. She had seen our storytelling chairs online and wanted something personalised — featuring the school crest and their Welsh name.

"I am looking for a storytelling chair that we can use for a school Eisteddfod Chair… we would like to have the school name in Welsh — Ysgol Rhaeadr Gwy."

The idea felt like a natural fit. Traditionally, the Eisteddfod Chair is a symbol of creativity, poetry and achievement. In a school setting, it becomes a focal point where young performers, poets and storytellers can celebrate Welsh culture and language — and a handcrafted storytelling throne captures that spirit beautifully.

Designing the Chair

The chair was carved in our Snowdonia workshop from solid oak. Its tall back and sculptural arms give it the feeling of a small throne — a seat that makes the child who sits in it feel genuinely celebrated. The school crest was carved into the backrest, with the overall design kept elegant and understated so the chair could serve not just the Eisteddfod, but storytelling sessions, assemblies and special occasions throughout the school year.

Like all our storytelling chairs, it was built to last — something that can remain in the school for decades and become woven into its own story.

The Reaction

Shortly before the event, a message arrived from the school:

"Thank you for the chair, we have just had it delivered. Everyone is very impressed and excited. The chair is outstanding."

This is always a special moment for us. A chair like this quickly becomes more than furniture. It becomes a place — somewhere children sit to read, perform and celebrate. For a school Eisteddfod, it creates a stage within a stage: a seat where the young poet, singer or storyteller can take their place and feel like the centre of the world.

A Chair That Keeps Giving

While this chair was made for an Eisteddfod, its purpose carries on long after the event. Storytelling chairs like this find their way into:

• School reading corners and book nooks
• Assemblies and celebration events
• Library storytelling sessions
• Forest school activities
• Cultural events and performances

Over time they become familiar, loved objects — places where imagination and language are actively encouraged.

Commission Your Own Storytelling Chair

We have been making storytelling chairs for schools, nurseries and libraries for over twenty years. Every chair is handcrafted from sustainably sourced hardwood and can be personalised with carvings, school crests or designs that reflect the character and values of your school.

Whether you are planning an Eisteddfod, a reading project or an outdoor learning space, we would love to help create something truly special. Browse our storytelling chairs or get in touch to discuss a bespoke commission.