Students from Kindergarten to Year Nine are being encouraged to jump into reading with the opening of the NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge this week (1 March).
The Premier, Gladys Berejiklian launched the program saying the challenge encouraged students across NSW to read between 20 and 30 books for leisure and pleasure – depending on their challenge level – from a reading list of quality literature.
Ms Berejiklian said that during last year’s challenge, almost nine million books were read, a five per cent increase on the previous years.
“It’s important for children to discover what books have to offer because we know a passion for learning will set them up for the future,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“Whether it’s picking up a book to boost your knowledge, relax at the end of a hard day, or look for inspiration from great figures, reading offers so much for anyone at nearly any age,” she said.
Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell said that last year an additional 38,000 books were read and 165 more schools joined the challenge.
“It’s not too late for schools and students to join the Premier’s Reading Challenge, all you need to do is register, pick up a book and start reading,” Ms Mitchell said.
“The ability to read well is one of education’s greatest gifts, and everyone involved should be proud that the challenge continues to grow and encourages all students to explore the many benefits that result from a love of reading,” she said.
Ms Mitchell said there was a particular focus this year to ensure representation on the reading list of literature by Indigenous authors and illustrators.
Further information on the Premier’s Reading Challenge, including how to participate, can be accessed at this PS News link.
