How to Keep Children Reading Over Summer: Why Teachers Champion the Summer Reading Challenge

Case Study from Tanya Du Bery, Year 6 Teacher and KS2 English Lead, and Grace Mulberry, Class Teacher and Early Years English Leads at Archdeacon Cambridge’s CfE Primary School.

As teachers, we all know how the long summer break can affect children’s learning, especially when it comes to reading. Every September, we notice that some pupils return having lost momentum, particularly in vocabulary, sentence structure and general reading fluency. That’s why we actively promote the Summer Reading Challenge at our school. It’s one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to keep children reading outside the classroom.

The summer reading dip is real

We notice that pupils who don’t read regularly during the summer often come back less confident in both reading and writing. The impact isn’t just academic. It also affects their self-esteem and motivation. For some children, particularly those without access to books at home, the summer gap can be quite significant.

That’s where the Summer Reading Challenge really makes a difference. It gives children a reason to keep reading and helps them maintain the skills they’ve developed throughout the school year. Read more about how the Challenge is helping children’s reading.

Inspiring a love of reading beyond the classroom

Our school takes part in the Summer Reading Challenge every year, and we’ve found it incredibly valuable in cultivating a genuine love of reading. We introduce the Challenge in assemblies and follow up with information in our school newsletters and parent emails.

Crucially, the Challenge is inclusive and accessible. It’s free to join at local libraries and parents often tell us that their children were excited to visit the library over summer. 

Involving the whole school community

Parental involvement is key. While many families are keen to take part, we make a concerted effort to reach those who might not initially engage. Promoting the Challenge through multiple channels such as letters, emails, social media and class discussions helps ensure no child is left out.

We also involve our school librarian, who helps children choose books based on their interests and reading levels. Her recommendations often give reluctant readers the encouragement they need to get started.

It’s one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to keep children reading outside the classroom.

Give children ownership over their reading

If you’re a teacher wondering whether it’s worth promoting the Summer Reading Challenge, my advice is simple. Do it. It’s easy to get started, and the impact is well worth it. 

It gives children ownership over their reading. When they talk about finishing a book or earning a certificate, you can see how proud they are. That motivation carries into the autumn term, making the transition back to school smoother and more positive.

Sign up for a free teacher’s pack

The Reading Agency offers a free Summer Reading Challenge Teacher’s Pack filled with everything you need to encourage pupils and parents to get involved. It’s a great way to support learning, build enthusiasm and strengthen your school’s reading culture.

Hear more from teachers and pupils at Archdeacon Cambridge Primary School in our video.