Reading for Pleasure
A reader for pleasure is more likely to be happier, healthier and to do better at school
(Book Trust)
At Woodlands, We believe it is vital that children have time to read a variety of books so they can enjoy reading. Reading for pleasure - not because it ticks off an objective or sets up a writing opportunity but, well, just because!
Parent Reading Sessions
Our parent reading sessions provide an opportunity for children and their families to share 'breakfast and books' or 'biscuits and books' together every term
Strategies to support Reading for Pleasure
Reading Aloud
Reading aloud is one of the most important things our teachers do and is a frequent and regular part of each school day. Reading aloud enables children to experience and enjoy 
stories they might not otherwise meet. At Woodlands we make it a priority and ensure everyone understands the importance of it. Reading aloud is a non-negotiable that isn’t gobbled up by finishing off or tidying up. Time is set aside for it. By reading well-chosen books aloud, teachers help classes to become communities of readers – ensuring that they can share in experiences of a wide repertoire of books they enjoy. This links to the commitment we have to deepening and broadening the children’s vocabulary and exposure to a rich and varied world of texts.
Dedicated reading areas
Each classroom has a dedicated reading area. Classroom libraries with books from a variety of genres and covering a range of potential areas of interest increase pupils’ literacy-related skills and promote phonemic awareness, vocabulary, comprehension and writing. These areas are accessible, welcoming places that are stocked with good-quality, appropriate books. Reading areas contain multiple copies of the same texts to encourage shared reading and book talk amongst pupils.
Reading for Pleasure
Our 'Cosy Club', Reading Buddy's and The Reading Shed provide even more opportunity for reading for pleasure across the whole of the school day
Inspiring Reading
Books and information about books are displayed attractively in classrooms where browsing, choosing and reading can take place on a daily basis. We know that there are books which lend themselves to being talked about, thought through, returned to and which are engaging for children for a variety of reasons. Powerful stories engage children, stir ideas and feelings and excite the reader’s interest and imagination.
To inspire reading in children, we also:
- Invest heavily in reading resources that children will want to read and re-read including books, comics and poetry
- Have members of staff who are excellent reading role models. They lead by example, creating an environment that promotes reading as a socially engaging activity that is highly valued
- Promote books we think the children might enjoy or that staff are currently excited by
- Make use of interactive displays, competitions & incentives
- Welcome reading buddy's to provide children with more opportunities to share a book with a peer
- Encourage parents and carers to spend time reading with their child
Celebrating Reading
We celebrate literature by organising events such as library or theatre trips to experience author presentations and to see texts brought to life.
Reading focused trips, visitors and wider opportunities
