22 January 2026
The Reading Island Network has welcomed the launch of the National Year of Reading and
announced two major initiatives to strengthen Jersey’s reading culture.
The Network will launch an Islandwide survey of primary and secondary pupils’ reading habits,
and specialist training for teachers and library staff led by experts in reading for pleasure.
The survey will provide the first coordinated picture of how children in Jersey read today,
helping schools and libraries tailor support and identify barriers to reading. The
professional-development programme will build local expertise and ensure staff across the Island have the latest tools to inspire young readers.
The National Year of Reading, led by the UK Department for Education and the National Literacy
Trust, aims to transform reading culture by connecting reading with people’s passions through
the Go All In campaign.
Formed in 2025, the Reading Island Network brings together schools, libraries, charities, and
cultural partners to strengthen reading for pleasure across Jersey, particularly for children and
families who face barriers to reading.
Deputy Rob Ward, Minister for Education and Lifelong Learning, said: “Reading sits at the
foundation of learning, opportunity, and wellbeing. The National Year of Reading gives us a
powerful moment to deepen our commitment to helping every child in Jersey experience the joy
of reading. The work of the Reading Island Network, especially its research and training
programme, will give us a clearer understanding of what our young people need and how we
can best support them to become confident, enthusiastic readers.”
Ed Jewell, Chief Librarian, Jersey Library, said: “This is a chance to reset how we think about
reading – less as an obligation, more as a source of confidence, curiosity, and connection. Our
goal is for every child in Jersey to feel reading belongs to them.”
Cris Lakeman, CEO, Every Child Our Future, said: “As we celebrate the launch of the National
Year of Reading, we are also marking the tenth anniversary of our work to improve children’s
access to books and reading opportunities. While we know there has been a worrying decline
nationally in children reading for pleasure, we are hopeful this can be changed. By re-engaging
children with high-quality, relevant books and giving them plenty of opportunities to talk about
what they enjoy, we can help reading become something they choose."
Andrew Willis, Headteacher, Janvrin School and Jersey Oracy Development Lead, said: “When
children read widely and joyfully, they grow as learners and as people. Reading for pleasure sits
at the heart of a great education.”
Caroline Whitehead, Advisor: School Improvement and Advisory Service, said: “The Reading
Island Network gives us a powerful platform to build a strong, collaborative reading culture
across the Island. Together, we can grow lifelong readers.”
Further updates on local activities, survey findings, and opportunities to take part in the
National Year of Reading will be shared in the months ahead.
gov.je