The charity’s team has been working closely with our newly-trained Reader Leaders, who are older pupils that have received mentoring training to enable them to work with lower school students to improve the younger pupils’ reading skills. The leaders have already made a fantastic start in their new roles, and it has been wonderful to see them guiding younger readers with patience and enthusiasm.

Alongside this initiative, we are excited to announce the launch of the school’s book club, which is open to all year groups and takes place during Week 2: Thursday lunchtimes in A7. The club offers a welcoming space to explore a wide range of books, discover new authors and enjoy lively discussions. It is supervised by Mrs Harbord and Mrs Craner and readers of all levels are welcome.

Last September, the school launched a school-wide reading competition in which students were encouraged to read in exchange for merits. In return, the participating pupil earns a token for their house, which is posted into the token collector that stands in pride of place in the library (see photo). It is really encouraging to note that there has been an overwhelming response to this initiative.

Last year, Phoenix won the coveted Reading Trophy, but 2026 is a fresh start, with everything to read for.

Finally, pupils across the school should keep an eye out for the new reading and writing competitions that will be running this term.

Mrs Harbord

School Literacy Coordinator