How to build an inclusive reading culture

Reading helps children to develop essential learning skills – but for those that can’t access reading materials at home, it’s crucial that schools build an inclusive reading culture that offers them the opportunity to develop a love for reading 

According to The Guardian, new research has revealed that almost one-in-five children in the UK between the ages of five and eight do not have access to books at home, so it is still very important that schools offer children as many opportunities to read as possible. 

Why reading is important for children

Reading can assist children as they progress through their school journey by setting them up with crucial learning skills. It can help to:

• improve concentration;
• improve memory;
• boost critical thinking;
• encourage empathy;
• expand language skills;
• enhance imagination;
• encourage better performance in school.

Strategies for building an inclusive reading culture

To build an inclusive reading culture, schools must offer opportunities for reading and include reading activities across the school curriculum. This can be done by:

• Creating a school library: a well-stocked and inviting library can encourage students to read. You should provide a range of books and genres that cater to a range of different interests and reading levels.
• Organising reading programmes: book clubs, reading challenges, and book fairs can motivate students to read more. Make these programmes fun and engaging to attract student participation.
• Encouraging reading for pleasure: incorporating independent reading time into the curriculum can allow students to read for pleasure during class time. This can help develop their reading skills and encourage a love of reading.
• Hosting author visits: inviting authors to visit the school can inspire students to read and provide them with the opportunity to learn more about the writing process.
• Incorporating reading into the curriculum: including reading activities in lessons to promote reading as a valuable tool for learning. You can also use literature to teach critical thinking and analytical skills.
• Modelling reading behaviours: as a school leader, you can lead by example and demonstrate your love for reading. Discuss the books they you are reading and recommend books to students.
• Celebrating reading achievements: recognising and celebrating students who have achieved reading milestones, such as completing a reading challenge or reading a certain number of books can motivate other students to read more.

An inclusive reading culture helps to foster a love of learning, improve academic achievement, and develop critical thinking skills. For schools, it is important to offer children the opportunities to pursue reading, especially if they are unable to access reading at home.