We are delighted to share that this year has been officially designated as the National Year of Reading 2026 – a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the joy, power and lifelong benefits of reading.

 Reading is one of the most powerful tools we can give children and research continues to show just how transformative it can be. Throughout the year, our school will be taking part in a variety of exciting activities designed to inspire a love of books and stories in every child. From author visits and themed reading weeks to family reading challenges and book swaps, there will be something for everyone to enjoy.

Why Reading Matters: What the Research Says:

• Studies from the National Literacy Trust show that children who enjoy reading are far more likely to read regularly, which in turn strengthens vocabulary, comprehension and empathy.
• Evidence gathered by BookTrust highlights that reading supports children’s educational progress, social mobility and emotional wellbeing across all age groups.
• Research from the University of Cambridge found that children who read for pleasure early in life show better cognitive performance and improved mental health in adolescence.
• The Nuffield Foundation reports that reading is one of the most effective ways to build vocabulary — a key predictor of academic success across all subjects.

In short: reading is one of the most impactful habits a child can develop and your support at home makes a tremendous difference.

Throughout 2026, in addition to what we already do, children will take part in:

• Author visits and virtual workshops
• Reading challenges and themed book weeks
• Paired reading across year groups
• Monthly reading challenge – for a chance to enter the half termly raffle. (Please see below)
• Library discovery sessions
• “Drop Everything and Read” moments
• Celebrations of world literature
• Weekly ‘cosy’ story time (juniors)
• Half termly invitation for infant parents to come into school to read with their child at 15:10. The dates for these are:

• Friday 6^th February.
• Friday 20^th March
• Friday 15^th May
• Friday 10^th July

How you can get involved at home:

• Read together daily – whether it’s a bedtime story, a newspaper article, or a recipe, every word counts.
• Talk about books – ask your child what they enjoyed, what surprised them, or what they’d like to read next.
• Visit the library – explore new genres, join reading clubs and discover hidden gems.
• Be a reading role model – let your child see you enjoying books, magazines, or any form of reading.

Thank you for your continued support in making reading a joyful part of everyday life and for helping us create a vibrant culture where stories are shared, imaginations are sparked and a lifelong love of learning can flourish in every child.