Through the awards, Egmont Publishing in partnership with The Open University and UK Literacy Association, aim to recognise teachers and schools whose practices make a real difference to children’s RfP.
Now in its second year there are three award categories: Early Career Teacher, Experienced Teacher, and a Whole School Award. The winner of each category receives Egmont books to the value of £250 for their school and copies of Help Your Child Love Reading by Alison David.
The judges were children's author Andy Stanton, David Reedy from the ULKA, Teresa Cremin from the Open University, Cally Poplak and Alison David from Egmont Publishing, Fiona Evans, National Literacy Trustand Joy Court, Chair of the CILIP Carnegie & Kate Greenaway Medals Review.
Today we are delighted to announce the winners.
Whole School Award– Jointly awarded to Elmhurst Primary, London, and Sneinton Primary, Nottingham.
Elmhurst Primary: creating a culture of reading for pleasure
At Elmhurst developing teachers’ knowledge of RfP pedagogy and children’s literature has led to changes across the school. Increasing choice, resources and time to read have been at the heart of their research-informed approach to getting children to read more and to love reading.
Sneinton Primary…Where every day is Book Day!
The aim of Sneinton Primary has been to build an immersive reading environment. Time is set aside for reading aloud and book blether, as well emerging spontaneously across the school, not forgetting their ‘Cosy Caravan’.
Experienced Teacher Award– Sadie Phillips, Canary Wharf College, London
Sadie sought to challenge and extend experienced readers, as well as encourage those more reluctant children. Since many children share a passion for magazines, she created a Media Club and in several other activities profiled readers’ choice and agency.
Early Career Teacher Award– Marianne Mitchell, Christ Church C of E Primary, Hertfordshire
Recognising gaps in her knowledge of KS2 texts Marianne set out to develop her awareness by participating in online reading forums. She now shares favourites with children through book talk, displays, a ‘picture book world cup’ and a newsletter for children and parents.
Highly Commended entries:
Whole School – University of Cambridge Primary School, Cambridge
Nurturing Reading For Pleasure at UCPS
Experienced Teacher – Benjamin Harris, Dunmow St. Marys Primary, Essex
