On Monday afternoon, it was splendid to look from the window of my study and see so many children excited to visit the final day of our Book Fair on the front playground. This and our celebration of Roald Dahl on Thursday gave me my inspiration for this week – the joys and importance of reading!
I am passionate about reading. Reading skills are the single greatest tool in learning, and are at the heart of every stage of your child’s education at St Christopher’s and beyond. I am very proud to say that every child at St Christopher’s makes accelerated progress in reading which then allows them to make accelerated progress in every area of the curriculum. Sounding the first phonics in Reception leads directly to analysing Shakespeare in Year 8. Every book you read increases your vocabulary and takes your imagination on a new journey. Non-fiction broadens your general knowledge and awareness of the world. Reading stories from cultures different to your own broadens empathy and understanding.
Reading should be a pleasure, too, and this is a message we constantly reinforce. I am very much a believer in the old saying that there are no people who don’t like reading, just those who haven’t found the right book. At every level of the school, our staff are keen to recommend books to anyone who asks for advice. As I visit classrooms around the school during reading time, I am always fascinated to see the variety of genres and authors that our children enjoy. Classic novels, graphic novels, biographies, even a cookery book or two! Miss Adams has produced a display called “13 by 13”, featuring a baker’s dozen of books she thinks everyone should have read before they leave Prep School. It is already sparking literary discussion amongst children and staff over their personal choices for such a list.
Roald Dahl Assembly took place yesterday. This inspired a brilliant impromptu debate in a Year 8 Philosophy lesson, where the class discussed whether Roald Dahl’s work should be revised for 21st century readers. Opinions ranged from denouncement of all censorship to questioning whether Willy Wonka was a slave owner. Discussion and debate are just two skills of many that are enhanced by reading widely.
It is said that children become readers on the laps of their parents. In the modern age of mobile phones, tablets, and screens, it is more important than ever that families set aside time to read together; it really is so important. Read to your children, read with your children, and let them see you reading for pleasure. Do please let your child’s teacher know if you have a reluctant reader at home – we will find the right book for them!
Ms Elizabeth Lyle, Head
