Announcement

Dear Parents and Carers,

This term, students in Years 7 and 8 have enjoyed weekly Accelerated Reader lessons alongside fortnightly curriculum reading sessions, and we have seen a noticeable rise in engagement: library lessons are busy, students are choosing a wide range of texts, and they are enjoying discussing and reflecting on their reading.

To coincide with the ‘National Year of the Reader 2026’; our Caterham World Book Day will take place on Thursday 6th March 2026, with activities running across the week to raise the profile of reading across the school.

Years 7 and 8 are invited to come to school dressed as a character from their favourite book on Thursday 6th March 2026.

Costumes can be simple or elaborate, but we strongly encourage homemade outfits or a single item or prop rather than buying new costumes; a hat, scarf or handmade accessory is ideal.

Prizes will be awarded to the best dressed Year 7 and Year 8 students. This remains a normal school day with timetabled lessons, so students who do not wish to take part should attend in full school uniform. During the week there will be creative activities in lessons and form time, tutors will share favourite books with their tutees, and students are welcome to bring a favourite book to share with their class.

A reading themed tea party in the library will take place with students invited based on their achievements and effort in reading. Reading supports stronger GCSE outcomes by developing comprehension, vocabulary, critical thinking and writing skills, and it also builds confidence, curiosity and wellbeing.

We are proud of the progress our students are making and hope you will join us in celebrating reading at home and at school.

For ideas about sharing books, see BookTrust: https://www.booktrust.org.uk/ and costume inspiration at www.bookaid.org/worldbookday (bookaid.org in Bing).

If you have any questions, please email welcome@ecaterham.net

Yours sincerely,

Mr C Hunter - Assistant Headteacher

Mr J Kalmakrian - Resources Manager

Ms H Tariq - Curriculum Leader, English