12 October 2016

More than 1,000 schools across Scotland have signed up to the First Minister’s Reading Challenge.

The challenge aims to get children reading for pleasure and is backed by the Scottish Book Trust.

Children can read from a selection of 100 books chosen by a panel of teachers, librarians, booksellers and parents or from other books or texts they are interested in.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon launched the Reading Challenge in August 2016 and commented:

Some of my happiest childhood memories involve immersing myself in stories so I’m pleased to have the opportunity to encourage young people to also experience the joy of reading for pleasure.”

Prizes will be awarded for schools and pupils who provide inspiring accounts of their rewarding reading journeys, which in turn can encourage more young people to take part.

Schools can sign up to the challenge here.

Ring that bell for reading! Over 60% of Scottish primary schools are now signed up to the @FMReadChallenge… https://t.co/O68FxA5PK0. pic.twitter.com/sepjDFCLXR

— Scottish Book Trust (@scottishbktrust) October 11, 2016