Schools rise to reading challenge

More than 1,000 schools across Scotland have signed up to an initiative to get children reading for pleasure.

Backed by the Scottish Book Trust, the First Minister’s Reading Challenge, which encourages youngsters to enjoy books, has so far been rolled out in 1,277 primary schools.

Children can read from a selection of 100 books chosen by a panel of teachers, librarians, booksellers and parents or from other books or texts they are interested in.

Prizes will be awarded for schools and pupils who provide inspiring accounts of their rewarding reading journeys, which in turn can encourage more young people to take part.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon launched the Reading Challenge in August. Schools can sign up by visiting https://www.readingchallenge.scot

Speaking ahead of a visit to Forthview Primary in Edinburgh, Culture Secretary Fiona Hyslop said:

“In less than two months, 60% of primary schools across the country have signed up to the First Minister’s Reading Challenge, and I would encourage more schools to get involved.”

“It is encouraging children to embrace the joy of reading from an early age, and will enrich their lives as they travel on their journey through school education and beyond.

“Every child in Scotland should have an equal opportunity to experience the lifelong advantages that reading for pleasure brings.”

Marc Lambert, CEO of the Scottish Book Trust, said:

“We are absolutely delighted at the incredible uptake of the First Minister’s Reading Challenge. The fact that it has been embraced by 60% of schools within just a few weeks of the launch is a fantastically positive endorsement of the programme.

“Our ultimate vision for the Reading Challenge is that schools and communities will work together to build positive attitudes towards reading. The enthusiasm with which the challenge has already been received is a hugely positive indication of the will to make this happen.”