This year, schools across the country are taking part in the National Year of Reading 2026, a Department for Education initiative designed to reverse the decline in reading for pleasure and inspire a new generation of readers. The campaign has been launched in response to growing concerns that fewer children are choosing to read in their free time, despite the well-established benefits that reading brings to academic achievement, wellbeing, creativity and future life opportunities. Its aim is to create a lasting change in the nation's reading culture by encouraging children, families, schools and communities to put reading at the heart of everyday life. The campaign's theme, "Go All In", encourages everyone to discover books that connect with their own interests and passions.

At St Mary's, we are embracing the National Year of Reading by placing reading for pleasure at the centre of school life. We want every child to see reading not simply as a skill to be learnt, but as something to be enjoyed. Through daily story time, author studies, book recommendations, reading celebrations, library events and opportunities to share favourite books, we are creating a culture where books are talked about, valued and enjoyed by everyone.

How Authorfy Supports Reading for Pleasure

One of the exciting ways we are supporting this work is through Authorfy, an online literacy platform that brings books to life through videos and resources created by award-winning authors and illustrators.

Authorfy allows children to hear directly from the creators of the books they are reading, giving them an insight into the inspiration behind stories, the writing process and the excitement of becoming an author. By making these personal connections, children become more curious about books and more motivated to read independently.

Authorfy supports our reading culture by:

• introducing children to a diverse range of high-quality authors and texts;
• inspiring children through engaging videos from authors and illustrators;
• encouraging discussion, creativity and a genuine enjoyment of stories;
• helping children discover new genres and books they may not otherwise choose;
• promoting reading as an enjoyable experience rather than simply an academic task.

By combining inspiring literature with real-life author experiences, Authorfy helps children develop positive reading habits and a genuine love of books. It is a valuable part of our wider commitment to ensuring that every child leaves St Mary's not only as a confident reader, but as someone who chooses to read because they love it.