Time to Read
A major new initiative has launched at Teddies this year, placing reading for pleasure at the heart of school life
By Head Librarian, Sarah Eldred
Recent research conducted by Jubilee HM Charles Davies as part of his Master’s in Learning and Teaching at Oxford University revealed that most pupils at St Edward’s would definitely read more if they felt that they had the time to do so. Pupils reported that they struggle to pick up a book when faced with the many other academic, co curricular and social options available to them at Teddies. To eradicate this major barrier to reading, the timetable now features dedicated reading periods, during which pupils, teachers and House staff spend time reading together.
As a school we believe wholeheartedly in the power of reading; not only does it develop the skills and attributes so vital for successful academic outcomes, such as a wide vocabulary, a broader understanding of the world, an excellent grasp of grammar and the ability to focus, but, even more importantly, it has a positive impact on wellbeing. The long-term goal of this initiative is to ensure that pupils develop a lifelong love of reading so that they can take all the benefits on with them into adulthood.
One of the biggest motivators for reading is the discussion that inevitably stems from the enjoyment of a good book. We are encouraging much more discussion about books and reading not only between teachers and pupils but between pupils too. Being able to converse about literature, and share stories and ideas, helps our pupils to build positive relationships and confidence. Studies show that young people are less inclined to read if their book choices are perceived negatively by others, for example by adults who might push them to read a certain type of book considered ‘better’ in some way. We find that people naturally expand their reading choices over time when encouraged by a community of readers, and as such we intend to encourage pupils to read any genre they enjoy, be it fiction or non-fiction, graphic novels or comic books, biographies, poetry or plays. The intention is to validate whatever their choice may be and therefore to normalise and encourage all types of reading.
Time to Read is now at the heart of school life through a number of avenues including not only dedicated reading time, but gatherings in House where pupils are encouraged to talk each week about the book they are reading, and assemblies where books are discussed. It is becoming a normal part of the tutor-pupil relationship to ask what each other is reading and to discuss their books. We are encouraging pupils to share and swap books and, as always, to make use of the Library and to seek advice from the Librarians when they are struggling to find something they like.
The Librarians have collated hundreds of titles into book lists to suit every palate, as well as sharing a book of the week. Of course, the Librarians continue to update the Library’s collection with the latest interesting titles across a wide range of genres and tastes, and to work with each academic department to promote their subject-specific recommendations.
We believe that Time to Read will have a significant impact on the reading habits of our community. Many of the most successful people in the world report that they read without fail every single day and those who read regularly through adulthood continue to learn, continue to question and continue to be inspired throughout their life.