More children in Guernsey reading books than in UK

More children read books almost every day outside of school in Guernsey compared to the UK, a new survey has found.

The Guernsey reading survey said 39% of all primary and secondary pupils read every day or almost everyday outside of school compared to in the UK where the figure is 19%.

A campaign has now been launched in Guernsey and the UK called Go All In which is set to encourage more islanders to enjoy reading more.

Deputy Paul Montague, President of the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture, said children who read for pleasure "grow empathy, imagination and resilience".

More than 2,000 adults ages 18 and over in Guernsey also completed the survey which found 64% read regularly, compared to 50% in the UK.

It also suggested more than 70% of adults said they would read more often if they had more time to themselves.

It found 35% said reducing time on social media would allow more time for books.

Montague, who had previously been a head teacher, said: "Throughout my career in education, it has always been clear to me that reading is the foundation of learning, opportunity and well being.

"By championing reading, we invest not only in education but in the social and cultural fabric of our island.

"Reading is a lifelong gift that opens doors and strengthens society."

The Guille-Allès Library is also part of the Go All In campaign.

Cornelia James, chief librarian said it was a "wonderful opportunity to celebrate the magic of reading".

"That's vitally important for all of us, because reading changes lives.

"It's central to children's development, whether or not a child reads for pleasure is a key predictor of their future success."

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