Supporting reading for pleasure in primary schools
At the School Literacy Network (SLN), we’re ready to Go All In and are proud to support the National Year of Reading. We welcome another opportunity to champion why reading for pleasure matters so much in primary schools. That being said, for SLN, with our focus on supporting primary English teaching, every year is a year of reading.
Building a strong reading culture is not a one-off initiative. It is long-term work that develops through sustained commitment, consistent enthusiasm and ongoing support. With the right support from SLN, you can make a big impact quickly and embed a whole-school reading culture.
Developing a whole-school reading culture
Over the years, we’ve worked alongside many member schools and seen first-hand how powerful this can be. Shifting mindsets so that reading for pleasure is valued across the whole school community takes more than a single year and relies on consistent enthusiasm and support. With our ongoing support, we help you make an early impact, so you can embed change that truly makes a difference. As one headteacher we recently worked with shared:
“Reading is more visible and celebrated across the school since working with the SLN. It’s becoming embedded in everyday practice.” Tom Paddon, Headteacher
This feedback came from a joint project with our parent charity, Libraries Unlimited, and highlights the importance of drawing on the wider reading ecosystem, particularly public libraries. The impact was felt throughout the school, from leadership to pupil voice. As one Year 3 pupil put it: “I’m going to the library more now. I like finding the football books.”
What really makes a difference to reading outcomes
From our experience, supporting schools to develop a genuine culture of reading for pleasure is the most meaningful impact our CPD and ongoing support can have. It’s the everyday practices, those that become part of school routines and community life, that lead to sustainable change. One-off events such as author visits or themed book days can be valuable (and we do those too), but they are most effective when they sit within a broader, long-term reading strategy.
We have always introduced our members to outstanding authors and their work firsthand. This term, we are delighted to be hosting the fabulous Nick Sharratt but this is nothing new for us. Our back catalogue of SLN meeting guests reads like a who’s who of children’s publishing, and it is this legacy that makes us unique. We have always championed the new, celebrated the great, and showcased the inspiring.
Why reading for pleasure matters
Talking about reading, discovering authors and sharing books together is a joy, but it’s also serious, important work. As the OECD stated back in 2002, “reading for pleasure is the single most important indicator of a child’s future success.” This evidence continues to underpin our work with schools today.
Ongoing support beyond the National Year of Reading
During this National Year of Reading, our advice is simple: embrace the momentum, but think beyond the year itself. The School Literacy Network can support schools through ongoing CPD, practical resources, access to authors and strong partnerships that help make reading for pleasure a visible, valued and embedded part of everyday school life.
Explore our website to find out more about the training, resources and membership to suit your setting. Alternatively you can email us directly with any questions or queries at hello@schoollitnet.org.uk – we’d love to hear from you.
