National Year of Reading 2026: School activity guide
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Inspire your learners to embrace reading for pleasure this National Year of Reading and enhance their understanding of the power of literature and non-fiction to boost their creativity.
What's included
- A comprehensive, ready-to-use and inspiring list of National Year of Reading 2026 activities
- Adaptable for all year groups from KS1 to KS4
Available as a free PDF download or as an editable document for subscribers.
How to use this resource
This editable, printable activity list is perfect for the National Year of Reading 2026 to inspire both primary and secondary learners to pick up a book - any book - and start reading.
There's no better escape in life than a good read and finding that perfect text can happen at school just as much as at home. As educators, helping a child find the genre of reading that suits their personality down to the ground is a powerful moment.
Delve into these ideas, divided into primary and secondary categories, to help motivate, encourage and inspire the children in your classroom to see books and reading from a different, more exciting perspective.
Even though there are two distinct sections for primary and secondary, these can easily be adapted to suit your own set of learners to help personalise learning.
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A sample extract from the resource:
National Year of Reading 2026: School activity guide for primary and secondary schools
Inspiring a nation of readers in 2026
The National Year of Reading 2026 encourages schools across the UK to embrace a pupil-centred approach to literacy by connecting reading with young people's existing interests and hobbies. Whether learners are passionate about sport, music, gaming, fashion, technology or popular culture, the campaign's "Go All In" message promotes reading as an enjoyable part of everyday life.
Primary reading ideas
For younger learners, the focus is on creating fun, memorable reading experiences that nurture confidence and enthusiasm.
Music-inspired reading sessions
Transform favourite songs into literacy opportunities by exploring age-appropriate lyrics. Pupils can discuss meaning, identify interesting vocabulary and create their own stories or poems inspired by the music.
Reading adventure bingo
Design themed reading challenge cards featuring different genres, authors or book-related tasks. Children can tick off completed activities and work towards certificates, stickers or classroom rewards.
