Reading Passport Challenge
This half term, Year 7 students will be embarking on an exciting literacy journey as they take part in the Reading Passport Challenge. Over the course of six weeks, students will aim to read as many books as possible, developing their confidence, imagination and enjoyment of reading while working towards a range of rewards.
The challenge is inspired by the metaphor that *books are passports*, encouraging students to see reading as a way of travelling beyond their everyday experiences. For the challenge, students are encouraged to read a variety of different books. To keep a record of their progress, each student must write the title of every book in their Reading Passport and ask a trusted adult to sign it. The signature confirms that the student has read the book and discussed it. Completed Reading Passports should be handed to Ms Morris by Friday 10th July.
Students can achieve a number of awards based on how many books they read:
* **Bronze Award** Read 6 books * Certificate * Sweet treat
* **Silver Award** Read 10 books * Certificate * Sweet treat * Bookmark
* **Gold Award** Read 13 books * Certificate * Sweet treat * Bookmark * Book from Ms Morris’ prize shelf
* **Platinum Award** Read 18 books * Certificate * Sweet treat * Bookmark * Book from the prize shelf * Breakfast with the Principal
In their library lessons, students have been exploring the deeper meaning of reading through metaphors. One idea that resonated strongly was that “books are the quietest friends”. Students explained that books are always there when you need them, offering comfort, entertainment and inspiration, while helping to shape who you are.
They also discussed the metaphor “a library is a garden and books are the seeds”, recognising that reading supports growth, knowledge and personal development over time. Building on this, students returned to the idea that “books are passports”, reflecting on how reading allows them to explore new places, ideas and identities. As one student, Damea, thoughtfully explained, while passports can take you to different countries, books can help you reach success in the future.
