National Year of Reading
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Celebrating a National Year of Reading
The National Year of Reading 2026 is a major UK-wide campaign led by the Department for Education in partnership with the National Literacy Trust, aiming to inspire people of all ages to “Go All In” and rediscover reading for pleasure.
This initiative responds to a significant national decline in reading enjoyment among children and young people. [literacytrust.org.uk] [ukla.org]
A Culture of Reading at Bollin Primary School
At Bollin Primary School, we love reading.
Our School Librarian, Miss Smith, and English Lead, Mr Hampton, have worked together to design an exciting 12‑month programme of reading events, celebrations and community activities to mark the National Year of Reading.
Their plan brings reading to life across classrooms, corridors, outdoor spaces and the wider community, ensuring every child experiences the joy and power of books.
How Bollin Will Celebrate the National Year of Reading
World Book Day 2026 – Thursday 5th March
World Book Day remains a national celebration of reading for pleasure and access to books. Key features include:
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£1 book tokens for every child to exchange for special World Book Day titles. [booksfortopics.com]
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Free national resources, author sessions and class activities. [literacytrust.org.uk]
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Integration with the National Year of Reading, emphasising personal reading interests. [ukla.org]
World Book Day gives pupils a joyful, memorable experience that supports reading all year long.
Global Voices Week – Celebrating Language, Culture & Identity
Global Voices Week shines a light on the rich diversity of language and culture, inspired by national celebrations of multilingual learning and representation.
National events highlight the importance of celebrating linguistic diversity and inclusive language education. [barnardos.org.uk]
At Bollin, Global Voices Week will include:
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Stories and poetry from around the world
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Activities celebrating home languages and cultural heritage
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World literature exploration
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Multilingual storytelling and music
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Celebrations of identity, belonging and voice
This week reinforces our commitment to inclusion and global awareness.
Additional Reading Events Throughout 2026
Alongside World Book Day and Global Voices Week, Bollin will take part in:
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National Storytelling Week
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Children’s book festivals and events across the UK [nspcc.org.uk]
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National Literacy Trust literacy celebrations and seasonal events [saferinternet.org.uk]
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Inspiring Learners Trust reading projects and cross‑school events
These celebrations deepen pupils’ engagement with reading and broaden their reading experiences.
Reading Across Bollin Primary School
Throughout the year, children will enjoy:
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Themed reading months linked to hobbies and interests
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Author visits, assemblies and storytelling events
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Outdoor reading experiences, including links with Bowdon Allotments
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Family reading workshops and shared reading opportunities
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Book swaps and library events
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Digital reading through 1:1 devices, enabling accessibility for all learners
Useful Links
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National Literacy Trust – National Year of Reading
https://literacytrust.org.uk/about-us/national-year-of-reading-2026/ [literacytrust.org.uk]
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World Book Day – Educator Resources
https://www.worldbookday.com/educators/ [literacytrust.org.uk]
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World Book Day 2026 Activities
https://learningmole.com/world-book-day-activities-primary-school/ [booksfortopics.com]
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National Literacy Events Calendar
https://literacytrust.org.uk/resources/literacy-teaching-calendar/ [saferinternet.org.uk]