Now in its fourth year, the Word Up! (a student and parent book group) has had great success in encouraging reluctant readers to discover the joys of reading. The group is designed to promote a shared enjoyment of reading with both parent and student reading the chosen novel before meeting in an informal setting for discussion. Over the past four years, it has been a pleasure to hear students, with the support of their parents, talking enthusiastically about literature and we have even had the privilege of witnessing a year 8 boy become transformed from having an adamant hatred of books to becoming a passionate and committed reader.

Studies have highlighted that reading enjoyment, and thus reading achievement, can be promoted by students witnessing a positive reading role model at home be it a mum, dad, brother, sister, aunty or uncle. The shared reading experience then encourages the completion of the book as well as allowing the possibility for interesting discussions. Some even use it as a competition to see who can finish first!

Word Up! meets once every half term between 1830 and 1900 in the school library. Books are provided free of charge and are issued via the library system; we always aim to choose an interesting and inspiring novel suitable for both teenagers and adults, as well as one that promotes discussion and debate. Often, the group is a useful forum in which to share recommended reads and we always try to make suggestions available for loan. If you would like more information on the group or you are interested in joining, then please contact either Mrs Drake or Mrs Good