Reading for pleasure: 12 deliberate strategies for schools

In my first article last week, I argued why reading for pleasure is not just a leisurely pastime, but a cornerstone of lifelong learning and personal growth.

I outlined several key benefits to reading for pleasure, including academic outcomes, emotional health and wellbeing, social skills, cultural and historical awareness, and developing lifelong habits.

I then explored nine ways of creating a whole-school culture of reading for pleasure. This time, I would like to examine the link between reading for pleasure and attainment.

Reading for pleasure (and attainment)

When learners engage with books out of personal interest and curiosity, rather than obligation, the impact on their academic achievement can be profound and far-reaching. The benefits of reading for pleasure extend well beyond literacy itself, influencing a wide range of cognitive, social, and emotional skills that underpin success in school and beyond.