The publisher Egmont is collaborating with the Open University and the UK Literacy Association to build reciprocal and interactive communities of readers. To promote this, a new Award for Reading for pleasure has been established, with three categories: early career teacher, experienced teacher, and a whole school award.
The judges have been children's author and poet Michael Rosen, David Reedy from the ULKA, Teresa Cremin from the Open University, Cally Poplak and Alison David from Egmont Publishing and Joy Court, chair of the CILIP Carnegie & Kate Greenaway Medals.
Today we are delighted to announce the winners.
Whole School Award – St Matthew’s C of E Primary School in Birmingham
Working right across the school a coherent programme of initiatives have ensured all children can benefit from dedicate time and space for reading for pleasure, read their description of how staff and students in every classroom got involved here.
In this short film Michael Rosen interviews Paulette Osborne and Sonia Thompson about their approach.
Experienced Teacher – Jon Biddle from Moorlands Primary Academy, Belton, Norfolk
Jon has established a ‘book buddy’ system, specifically designed to help children who need extra assistance with their reading. The system draws together teachers, pupils, support and office staff to create a reading community, you can find out how by clicking here.
In this short film Michael Rosen interviews Jon Biddle about his work.
Early Career Teacher – Emily Crumbleholme from Peover Superior Primary School, Knutsford
By creating a relaxed environment within the classroom and ensuring dedicated reading time, Emily encourages her pupils to discuss books, and focus on their current interests as well as reaching out to engage parents, find out how here.
In this short film Michael Rosen interviews Emily Crumbleholme about what she has changed in her practice.
The winners will receive Egmont books to the value of £250 for their school, 20 copies of Help Your Child Love Reading by Alison David, and a crystal trophy.
Highly Commended entries include:
Experienced Teacher
Joanna Hasler
Theresa Gooda
Whole School
Bishop Road Primary, Bristol
St. Michael’s Catholic School, High Wycombe
Palm Bay Primary, Margate
Mendip Green Primary, Weston-Super-Mare