Primary Conference 2026 | Beyond the book: routes into reading

Reimaging reading

We’re reimagining what reading can look like — and who it can reach.

Experience a dynamic, inspirational day at our flagship primary conference, as we journey 'beyond the book and explore the evolving landscape of the world of reading and stories. Taking place at the British Library, we will be joined by leading experts in multimodal literacy and inclusive representation, during this important National Year of Reading 2026.

When children choose to read in the ways they enjoy, the impact goes far beyond literacy. In primary schools, we know how volitional reading drives stronger reading skills, academic success, and life chances.

However, our 2025 research shows fewer than one in three children enjoy reading in their free time, and fewer than one in five read daily. With an extensive evidence base, the DfE Reading Framework's highlights the link between motivation and skill: children need both to become confident, lifelong readers. This underlines how it is vital that we find ways to engage children in reading.

The changing literacy landscape presents new opportunities that must be explored - because the powerful benefits of reading are not limited to books. From lyrics to film, from spoken word to gaming, from audiobooks to graphic novels - the more children can choose, enjoy, and engage with texts, the more they develop the skills and habits that set them up for success. By embracing multi-modal reading, we nurture skilled, confident readers, who engage with the wonderful world of stories in many forms.

At ‘Beyond the book: routes into reading’, we’ll explore how to maximise the mutually reinforcing benefits of developing both the will and the skill of reading - because when children want to read and know how to read, they thrive.

What to expect from the conference

Over the course of the day, you will:

• Explore the rich variety of text media, as meaningful literacy experiences in their own right
• Consider the ways in which we can create inclusive reading experiences and environments for all young people
• Enjoy practitioner-led workshops that translate research into powerful, practical classroom ideas
• Hear from thought leaders in education, literacy, policy, and school practice

Who should attend

This event is aimed at primary teachers, literacy leads, school leaders, librarians, and anyone who cares deeply about developing a culture of reading for pleasure - especially in ways that go beyond traditional print.

Conference highlights and confirmed speakers

We are proud to present a thought provoking and inspiring speaker programme, featuring:

• Charlotte Hacking, Learning and Programme Director at CLPE
• Kiran Satti, education leader and author
• Madeline Barnes, education leader and English consultant
• Panel hosted by Lucy Starbuck Braidley, Head of School Libraries at National Literacy Trust, with Louie Stowell, author of the Loki series
• Martin Galway, Head of Professional Partnerships & Learning at National Literacy Trust, with Anna Hackett, leader in curriculum and professional learning
• Insights from CLPE and National Literacy Trust

More to be announced. They will share research, strategies, and practical ways to bring a world of reading to life in your setting. Secure your place now using the booking form below - or sign up here for agenda updates.

Take home impact

By attending, you will:

• Be equipped with evidence-informed strategies to diversify reading provision
• Gain practical tools to reach children who are disengaged from traditional texts
• Join a community of like-minded practitioners committed to inclusive, joyful reading

Why now - and why at the British Library?

The National Year of Reading “Go All In” campaign invites us all to rethink how reading fits into life: it brings reading into modern culture, to meet readers where they are. If you’re into it, read into it. Hosting our conference at the British Library, a place of national heritage and imagination, underlines our ambition to bridge history and innovation.

How to get your ticket

Please sign up using the registration form below.
For any questions please contact schools@literacytrust.org.uk