Why Take Part in the Challenge?
In Their Own Words: What Educators Gain from the Teachers’ Reading Challenge
On 25 June this year, the Teachers’ Reading Challenge re-launched, with new rewards, a fresh, updated website and exciting new resources and materials.
But why is the challenge so important, and why do we think it’s needed in 2025? Who better to tell us than the challenge participants themselves? The following responses are from the last time we carried out a participant survey, in 2023.
When the Teachers’ Reading Challenge launched, it invited teachers, librarians, and education staff across the UK to do something deceptively simple: read. But as the feedback rolled in, it became clear this wasn’t just about ticking off books—it was about reconnecting with reading, reigniting professional passion, and rediscovering what it means to be a reader with and for young people.
Here’s what participants had to say, in their own words…
Reigniting the Joy of Reading
For many, the Challenge offered a chance to rediscover reading as a personal pleasure, not just a teaching tool.
“It was a chance to re-engage with children’s literature as a reader, not just a teacher.”
“I found myself looking forward to reading again. It’s reminded me why I became a teacher.”
“I read more this summer than I have in years. And now my students are curious about what I’ve read!”
Broadening Book Knowledge
The Challenge helped expand participants’ literary horizons, bringing new authors, genres, and confidence into their work with children.
“I discovered authors I’d never heard of, and now I’m recommending them to kids who love reading.”
“I now have a much broader repertoire of books to talk about with my class.”
“The Challenge helped me move beyond the ‘same old’ book choices.”
Pedagogy in Practice
Beyond reading more, many educators started applying what they learned through booktalk, read-alouds, and creating space for readerly conversations.
“I’ve built booktalk into our weekly routine and the kids love it.”
“Reading aloud is now a daily part of our classroom.”
“I created a book wall in our library based on Challenge reads. It’s made a real difference.”
Confidence and Community Connection
Taking part helped educators feel part of something bigger and more confident in their own practice.
“Knowing so many others were taking part made it feel like we were all part of something bigger.”
“It gave me a confidence boost. I feel like I can talk about books with passion again.”
“This was professional development, but it didn’t feel like work it felt personal.”
Lasting Impact
For many, the Challenge planted seeds of change that extended beyond the summer.
“Please keep running this. It’s a quiet but powerful way to inspire teachers and children alike.”
“The Challenge didn’t just help me read more, it helped my students see me as a reader.”
The Teachers’ Reading Challenge might have begun with a book—or six—but what grew from that was a deeper love of literature, stronger teaching practice, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Here’s to more reading, more connection, and more joy in the year ahead.
13 August 2025
