Oldham Pinnacle Learning Trust schools embrace World Book Day

A group of primary and junior schools across Oldham have been embracing World Book Day and the power of stories.

Werneth Primary School, Broadfield Primary School and Alexandra Park Junior School, all part of The Pinnacle Learning Trust (or soon to join), hosted an array of events and inclusive activities to celebrate the joys of reading and the positive impact it has on young peoples’ lives.

The schools ensured that no child was left behind in their celebrations as costumes, a regular staple of the day, were not required, merely optional, with pyjamas, homemade creations or comfy home attire being available as alternatives.

Schools wished to focus on the importance of reading and how we best enjoy a good story, ensuring there was no barrier to entry for participation.

At Werneth Primary School, pupils enjoyed an engaging World Book Day themed assembly, learning about why the day was created and discussing the best way to enjoy a good book.

Pupils were encouraged to read in whichever way they felt most comfortable and quizzed their teachers about their costumes, in a fun game, to reveal the character and story they were from.

In order to make reading as accessible as possible, the school used the traditional book tokens, available on the day, to pre-select a range of books, so that pupils could go home immediately with a new read of their choice.

Providing books in this manner meant that the school could eliminate any potential for a child not to have a free book, whilst ensuring they still had an enjoyable read of their choice. 

At Broadfield Primary School, pupils were treated to a similar assembly but, in a twist, were challenged to create their very own rap about their favourite book or character, inspired by MC Grammar’s annual World Book Day song.

This continued the theme that above all else, reading should be fun and engaging, the enjoyment of words can come in many forms.

Following the open challenge, for which one lucky pupil will win a book based prize, pupils returned to their classes, where Key Stage 1 hosted a fashion show to highlight all the amazing costumes, pyjamas and comfy clothing on display.

School made sure everyone was included, with provision and spare costumes for anyone who may need them.

Once again, the importance of the day was enjoying reading above all else.

To round up the week, Alexandra Park Junior School, due to join the trust in April, shared the joys of reading with younger pupils in a unique way.

Year 6 children chose their favourite books and stories and read them to younger pupils in year 3, they then answered question about their chosen tale and explained why they chose to share it.

The theme of the day was “snuggling up with a good book” and all pupils dressed in their favourite pyjamas or comfy clothes - the best way to enjoy a good read.

Across the entire school, children enjoyed craft activities, making masks based around their favourite literary characters, ensuring everyone also had a costume for the day.

It is important to all schools within the trust that children have no, or as little as possible, barriers to learning, engaging and having fun, especially when it comes to reading. 

Jonathan Bell, Director of Primary School Development and Principal of Werneth Primary School, said: "At The Pinnacle Learning Trust, we pride ourselves on our schools being encouraged to meet the needs of their children.

"Our schools have taken very different approaches but all work with shared beliefs about the importance of reading and have promoted the joys of a good book.

"We all place reading at the heart of our curriculum and have enjoyed seeing how the children have shown their love of reading."

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