Initiatives launched to strengthen reading culture

Two initiatives have been launched in Jersey to help strengthen the reading culture on the island.

The Reading Island Network has welcomed the UK government's National Year of Reading and said it will launch an island-wide survey of primary and secondary pupils' reading habits, and specialist training for teachers and library staff.

The network, formed in 2025, brings together schools, libraries, charities, and cultural partners to strengthen reading for pleasure across Jersey.

It is hoped the survey will provide a picture of how children in Jersey read today, and the training will build local expertise and ensure staff have the latest tools to "inspire young readers".

Deputy Rob Ward, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: "Reading sits at the foundation of learning, opportunity, and wellbeing.

"The National Year of Reading gives us a powerful moment to deepen our commitment to helping every child in Jersey experience the joy of reading.

"The work of the Reading Island Network, especially its research and training programme, will give us a clearer understanding of what our young people need and how we can best support them to become confident, enthusiastic readers."

Cris Lakeman, CEO, Every Child Our Future, said: "As we celebrate the launch of the National Year of Reading, we are also marking the tenth anniversary of our work to improve children's access to books and reading opportunities.

"While we know there has been a worrying decline nationally in children reading for pleasure, we are hopeful this can be changed.

"By re-engaging children with high-quality, relevant books and giving them plenty of opportunities to talk about what they enjoy, we can help reading become something they choose."

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