This term, two of our Year 6 pupils have taken on the role of Reading Ambassadors, helping to encourage a love of reading across Richmond House. Throughout the term, they’ll be sharing book recommendations with younger pupils, helping to look after our newly refurbished library and presenting reading prizes in assembly.

Both are enthusiastic readers themselves, although they enjoy books for slightly different reasons. For one, it’s all about discovering something new: “I love reading because it teaches me new things. I just really like learning new facts.” For the other, the magic comes from being transported somewhere completely different: “There are so many different types of books you can read. I really like fantasy, especially stories with things like dragons and elves. It’s nothing like real life – you feel like you’re actually there in the book and it’s really immersive.”

Reading is a regular part of the school day at Richmond House, whether during dedicated reading time or simply picking up a book when there are a few spare minutes between lessons. As one of our Reading Ambassadors explained, “We do lots of reading at school. The teachers have made it fun to read.” They also recognise how reading supports their learning elsewhere: “Reading has helped with our lessons and expanded our vocabulary. Some books have big words that we can then use in our writing.”

The pair are particularly excited about our newly transformed library and encouraging younger pupils to make the most of it. “It feels really welcoming and calming. I think the younger children will really like it, and hopefully it will encourage them to read more.” The other added, “It looks amazing now. There’s lots of space and it feels like a really fun and calming place to read. I really like spending time in here.”

We’re looking forward to seeing our Reading Ambassadors make the roles their own, sharing their enthusiasm for books and helping pupils across the school discover the enjoyment of finding a story or subject they love.