The Educator Magazine U.K. Sept-Dec 2024 issue - Magazine - Page 64
The benefits of a
dedicated reading
space in school
Children who read for pleasure are
proven to be happier and healthier. They
also achieve better learning outcomes.
Yet, one in four primary schools in
disadvantaged areas, and one in eight UK
Primary Schools, has no library space at all.
“In areas with higher levels of economic
deprivation where schools have over
25% pupils on free school meals, pupils
are more than twice as likely not to have
access to a designated library space.” BookTrust, Life-changing libraries report
If you’re keen to create a dedicated reading
space, it can be difficult to know where to
start.
The good news is that you don’t need a
huge area (or budget) to create a dedicated
space for reading. A small, quiet and visually
engaging space, with some well chosen
books, is all you need.
Getting started
Naturally, the most important aspect of a
reading space or school library is a great
selection of books!
It’s important that children have access
to a wide range of stories, featuring
characters from all backgrounds, ethnicities
and abilities. Reading can be hugely
aspirational when children see characters
and storylines they can relate to.
“Reading for pleasure enhances empathy,
understanding of the self, and the ability to
understand one’s own and others’
identities.” - Billington, 2015
Some children may not have the
opportunity to read at home. So your
school’s library or reading space could be
the only chance they have to enjoy the
life-changing magic of reading.
Support the journey
If the concept of reading for pleasure is
unfamiliar to some pupils, they’ll need
support on their journey.
It’s worth appointing reading champions
within your school’s dedicated reading
space. These can be adults (teachers and
parents) or fellow students who are
passionate readers.
Reading champions can introduce pupils
to the selection of books on offer in your
reading space. They can help children
identify the types of books that might
appeal to them, and direct them to genres
they may not usually consider.
Continue the journey beyond
school
Can you invite parents and carers to visit
your school library or reading space?
If so, this is a wonderful way to promote
reading for pleasure. It will also encourage
them to continue their child’s reading
journey at home.
You could run family reading sessions after
school, or host reading recitals as you might
do for music, dance or sports.
Reading champions can also help pupils
borrow books to take home (if this is
permitted). Or they can direct pupils to a
suitable reading spot - somewhere they will
feel safe, calm and focused.
If families can see the value and impact that
reading can have on their child’s wellbeing,
and their happiness as a family, they’ll be
more likely to facilitate joyful reading at
home.
Make the area as welcoming and
comfortable as possible - rules should also
be clearly displayed so pupils understand
what’s expected of them.
Effective intervention
Visual displays are key
An inspiring reading space will be visually
appealing and accessible to all pupils.
We know that children who read for
enjoyment are most likely to become
lifelong readers. So it’s important to make
your reading space as enticing and joyful as
possible.
Visual displays can make your reading space
a welcoming area that all pupils will want
to visit;
• Use a nature backdrop to create a
reading space that makes pupils feel safe
and calm - looking at images of nature is
proven to boost wellbeing
• Feature quotes from authors and stories
to spark curiosity - then help pupils
locate relevant books to find out more
• Add lots of visual cues around your
reading space to stimulate vocabulary
and sharing of thoughts, feelings and
opinions
• Make sure any visual displays within
your reading space promote diversity in
all its forms
In 2021, BookTrust England ran a campaign
to create dedicated libraries for six carefully
selected schools in the UK. Schools were
chosen based on the volume of pupils on
pupil premium - none had an adequate
school library.
Each library featured a diverse selection of
books, comfortable furniture and a bespoke
Wall Art mural, designed by Promote Your
School.
After completing the project, BookTrust
released a report showing the impact of the
libraries on each school.
In addition to improving behaviour and
wellbeing, the schools reported that the
new libraries had directly improved literacy
and attainment rates in all pupils, including
those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“For years we have been looking for
interventions to boost attainment to help
close the gap between disadvantaged and
SEN children and their peers. The library
was the only intervention they needed.”
Headteacher, Woodchurch CE Primary
School
Literacy Wall Art by Promote Your
School
Promote Your School is an education design
agency.
They design bespoke Wall Art for schools
across the globe to help boost attainment,
improve wellbeing and raise morale.
Get in touch to arrange a free consultation
or email wallart@promoteyourschool.com
to find out more.
