This year, our school marked World Book Day 2026 with the theme “Reading for Pleasure” and what a truly wonderful day it was! From the moment our children arrived at school in their snug, cosy pyjamas, it was clear that excitement was in the air. Reading, imagination and joy were at the heart of the day, reminding us all of the importance of fostering a lifelong love of books.

We began the day with our “Read with Me” session, welcoming our families into school to share stories with their children. It was a delight to welcome so many parents, carers and grandparents! Thank you for supporting our children in this special start to the day. Your attendance and support reinforces the importance of reading as a shared, joyful experience.

Throughout the day, our children took part in a variety of inspiring online workshops and author events, tailored to their year groups:

• EYFS: Scholastic World Book Day Event, giving our youngest readers an engaging introduction to books and stories.

• Year 1: Author Ben Davis presented his story Postman Planet, encouraging curiosity and creative thinking.

• Year 2: Author Corinne Bailey Rae brought her story Put Your Records On to life, promoting imagination and expression.

• Year 3: BBC Live Lesson, giving children the opportunity to engage with literacy in a national, interactive event.

• Year 4, Year 5 & Year 6: The Great Big Footy & Booky Quiz 2026 (National Literacy Trust), combining knowledge, teamwork, and a love of reading.

In the afternoon, children were delighted by a surprise assembly, where staff performed an entertaining reenactment of The Scarecrow’s Wedding, bringing the story to life with humour, energy, and creativity. It was wonderful to see the children so captivated, laughing and joining in, showing that storytelling is not just about reading but about experiencing and sharing stories together!

The day concluded with our much-loved Mystery Reader session, which was met with great excitement:

• Year 6 pupil read to Year 5

• Year 5 pupil read to Year 6

• Year 4 pupil read to Year 3

• Year 3 pupil read to Year 4

• Year 2 pupil read to Year 1

• Year 1 pupil read to Year 2

• Reception pupil read to Nursery (with support)

• Mrs Rabbette was the Mystery Reader for Reception

Seeing our children confidently reading to their peers was a true highlight of the day and demonstrated the confidence, leadership and community spirit that we aim to nurture in all our children.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Mrs Rabbette for organising this inspiring and joyful day. The effort that went into planning, coordinating author events, webinars, workshops and the Mystery Reader sessions ensured that our children had an unforgettable experience.

Photographs of the day have been shared with families via the school APP: ClassDoJo.

World Book Day 2026 has reminded us all of the power of reading to inspire imagination, bring people together and foster a love of learning that will stay with our children for life. I am incredibly proud of every child who participated and grateful to all the staff and families who made the day so special.