Challenge expands to include secondary schools
The First Minister’s Reading Challenge is now open to all pupils across primary and secondary schools in Scotland.
Secondary schools, libraries and community groups can now register to take part in the challenge which has been running in primary schools since 2016 and is delivered by Scottish Book Trust.
First Minister Nicola Sturgeon launched the third year of the challenge at Renfrew High School, one of the secondary schools that took part in a pilot last year.
She said: “I set up the First Minister’s Reading Challenge to instil a love of reading from an early age. Reading not only opens up a whole new world of adventure, but also helps develop and improve children’s literacy.
“The evaluation of the programme showed it has been well received by pupils, schools and parents in primary schools. It is important we build on that enthusiasm and encourage young people to continue reading as they progress through their education into secondary school.
“Registration for this year’s challenge is now open and I’m looking forward to seeing pupils from P1 to S6 getting involved.”
Headteacher of Renfrew High School Billy Burke said: “We were delighted to participate in the secondary pilot of the First Minister’s Reading Challenge and I have been hugely impressed by how our young people have embraced the opportunity.
“Particularly through the outstanding work of our school library with a variety of external partners, we have developed a vibrant culture of creativity and reading for pleasure throughout the school.
“Literacy unlocks the wider curriculum, and it is fantastic to see our pupils enjoying, embracing and leading in this area of their learning.”
Edinburgh Northern & Laith MSP Ben Macpherson has welcomed the announcement. He said: “The First Minister’s Reading Challenge is a great opportunity to get more children and young people excited about reading.
“With the increasing use of smartphones and computers, it is more important than ever that we promote reading and its power to accelerate learning and boost attainment.
“Following the Scottish Government’s National Strategy for School Libraries announced last week, the Reading Challenge is a great chance for schools and other groups to join a national reading movement.
“I encourage all schools, libraries and reading groups in the constituency to get involved.”
Registration for the First Minister’s Reading challenge is now open
The First Minister’s Reading Challenge is delivered through Scottish Book Trust, funded by the Scottish Government.
995 schools registered for the challenge last year with 235,000 children taking part.
The evaluation of the First Minister’s Reading Challenge is available online.
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