Whole School Read to Start the Day
Since the arrival of the our headteacher, Ms. Locke her genuine appreciation of children’s literature has become increasingly evident to both staff and children. Anyone having the chance to chat with her about reading, quickly discovers her passion for children’s authors and her encyclopaedic knowledge of various children’s authors and their works.
Among the many changes she has introduced to the school’s daily routine, perhaps the most popular—both with children and teachers—is the opportunity for each class to begin the day by reading a shared class book. Previously, the day started with a quick register followed by a hurried dash to the hall for Wake and Shake. While this was great for children’s fitness, it often made the start of the day feel disjointed, leaving little time for the children to settle in.
In contrast, school days now begin more gently, with children sitting together as a class and enjoying a whole-class story. This new routine allows children to develop their reading and listening skills while providing a calm and focused start to the day before lessons begin at 9 a.m. Visitors walking through the school between 8:45 and 9 a.m. would be amazed at the level of engagement and interest displayed by the children and the calm, tranquil atmosphere that pervades the school during this time.
Staff have also noticed another positive outcome of this change: a reduction in the number of children arriving late for the start of the school day. It seems the captivating stories being shared in each class have motivated children to arrive on time, eager not to miss the next enthralling chapter. (RH)
