Primary Conference 2026 | Beyond the book: routes into reading

Reimagine 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. We are delighted to be partnering with the British Library in bringing together 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.

In partnership with the British Library

The National Literacy Trust is proud to be working in partnership with the British Library to deliver the 2026 Primary National Conference. As the UK’s national library and one of the world’s great knowledge institutions, the British Library plays a vital role in championing learning, culture and access to ideas.

The British Library's free schools programme offers creative and dynamic opportunities for primary students to connect with its outstanding collection through workshops, exhibition visits and high-profile author events which celebrate and support Reading for Pleasure.

We are delighted to be hosting this year’s conference at the British Library’s Knowledge Centre, an iconic and inspiring setting, and look forward to welcoming delegates to such an important venue for a landmark event in the primary education calendar.

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:

• Louie Stowell, author of the Loki series, in a panel discussion with Lucy Starbuck Braidley, Head of School Libraries at National Literacy Trust and Mark Bradley, comic artist and author of the Bumble and Snug series
• Into Film, education charity focusing on film to support learner's educational, cultural and personal development.
• Charlotte Hacking, Teacher Engagement Lead at the Helen Hamlyn Centre for Pedagogy (0-11 years) at UCL, Research and Curriculum lead and Year 2 teacher and children's poetry editor.
• Kiran Satti, education leader and author
• Madeleine Barnes, education leader and English consultant
• Martin Galway, Head of Professional Partnerships & Learning at National Literacy Trust, with Anna Hackett, leader in curriculum and professional learning
• Jonathan Douglas, Chief Executive of the National Literacy Trust
• Insights from the Centre for Literacy in Primary Education
• Sanchita Basu De Sarkar, owner of Muswell Hill Children's Bookshop
• Award-winning children's author, script and game writer Sharna Jackson will round off our conference with a keynote about how harnessing diverse talent to enrich all media forms will support an improved reading culture.

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

How to get your ticket

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