The Reading Champions Framework

Reading Champions is not a “reading reward” initiative for those who are already engaged with reading. Instead the scheme targets the boys who are not necessarily readers, but have a degree of status within the school, giving them the responsibility of acting as reading advocates and at the same time developing their enthusiasm for reading. The framework can also be run with girls, but we would recommend that schools run Reading Champions for boys and girls separately.

“I’m so proud of the way the boys have picked up reading through Reading Champions. They’ve realised there is a value in reading and I think it’s changed their lives. That’s great to see!”

Burnwood Primary School, Stoke-on-Trent

The bronze, silver and gold framework

Reading Champions work towards three levels of achievement – bronze, silver and gold – based on fun activities to promote reading for enjoyment, the criteria for which are set by the boys themselves (with the help of staff).

Our Reading Champions toolkit includes suggestions for activities, but we also encourage you and your boys to add your own ideas and criteria. Further ideas can be found on this website.

The ideas you choose will inevitably be dictated by the boys' ages, abilities, and the period of time that you are running the project over. However, there should be an increase in both effort and commitment as the boys work through the awards. In general:

• Bronze Reading Champions generate enthusiasm for reading through recommendations and promotions.
• Silver Reading Champions are involved in schemes to encourage other boys to read.
• Gold Reading Champions make an outstanding contribution to developing the school reading culture.

After the Reading Champions have achieved each level, they receive a certificate and badge recognising their achievement. This simple and flexible framework gives the boys ownership, and can be developed as they grow in confidence, with support and encouragement from staff as needed.

“I think it is a good way to encourage people to read because you get awards and badges, so you can show other people you are a Reading Champion.”

Gavin, Year 5

Supporting literacy in the home

Our research The Dads and Boys Galactic Reading Project found that involving male family members in a Reading Champions project can have a further positive impact on pupils’ attitudes to reading and the frequency with which they read (read full report). The Reading Champions framework can be used within school to nominate male parents and carers, as well as volunteers and members of staff.

“Without this project I would not be reading with my boy. Definitely, definitely guaranteed. I would not be doing it.”

Mich, 32, father