This year’s theme focuses on reading for pleasure, encouraging students to incorporate reading into their daily routines alongside their hobbies and interests. Whether it’s reading a few pages after sport, exploring a favourite genre through an audio book, or discovering a new podcast, the aim is to show that reading can easily fit into everyone’s day.

During form time, KS4 students took part in reading activities where they explored book blurbs and shared the types of books they enjoy. Some students who do not often read outside of school were able to reflect on how reading can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend their time.

Staff also joined in the celebrations by sharing the books they are currently reading with colleagues and students. Through ‘current read’ posters, teachers and support staff regularly talk to students about the books they are enjoying, helping to inspire new reading choices and encouraging conversations about books across the school.

Students have also received World Book Day book tokens, which can be used in participating bookshops and retailers. These tokens give students the opportunity to choose a book of their own, helping them continue their reading journey beyond the classroom.

During morning tutorials, students are currently reading Crossing the Line (A powerful novel exploring how teenagers can be swept up into county lines), with some form groups already close to finishing the book. We look forward to choosing a new book to enjoy together next term!

World Book Day is a reminder that reading isn’t just something we do at school – it can be a meaningful and enjoyable part of our everyday lives. We hope students continue to find time to enjoy books and discover new stories throughout the year.

Little Rivers Primary was filled with cosy excitement as the pupils arrived in their pyjamas and costumes to celebrate this year’s World Book Day, themed Bedtime Stories. The school embraced a magical, story‑filled atmosphere where imagination took centre stage.

Children explored a range of tuff tray activities inspired by popular children’s books, giving them the chance to play, create, and bring well‑loved stories to life. In true Little Rivers style, the fun continued in the kitchen, where pupils made Toadstool Pizzas and Snake’s Logpile House—both delicious creations inspired by The Gruffalo.

Classes also joined a World Book Day live lesson, taking part in a Story Time session, a Sports & Books quiz, and lively discussions. Throughout the day, pupils shared their appreciation for books, talking about the stories they love and why reading is so important to them.

It was a joyful celebration of creativity, curiosity, and the power of stories—one that made World Book Day at Little Rivers truly special.

Huge congratulations go to Rhys S, Kiki C, Bradley P and Demarion M, whose chilling ghost stories stood out from thousands of entries submitted by students across the country.

Each story was crafted with suspense, atmosphere and tension, keeping readers hooked from start to finish. From eerie settings to unexpected twists, these writers showed fantastic creativity and confidence in their storytelling, making for truly gripping reading!

The Young Writers competition challenged students to explore the darker side of fiction, and we have loved reading every single story submitted at Rivers ESC. The imagination, effort and enthusiasm shown by our students has been brilliant, and this success is well deserved.

Being selected for publication is a fantastic achievement and something to be very proud of. Well done to our published authors - we can’t wait to see what you write next!

Please enjoy the stories below from our incredible students!