Nine-year-old Tom took part in our Young Readers Programme at King’s Oak Primary School in New Malden.
As part of the project, which is funded by British Land, Tom visited Eden Walk shopping centre in Kingston-upon-Thames to take part in craft activities like creating bookmarks, and listening to stories told by a professional storyteller.
Tom’s mother Lucy, who joined the visit to Eden Walk, described how the trip was memorable for pupils, teachers and parents.
“Tom and his peers really enjoyed the trip,” she said. “Jack, the staff member who showed us around Sainsbury’s, was brilliant and the children were so engaged. The bookmarks the pupils made were a great success and Tom now uses his every day. The storyteller was magical and everyone was totally absorbed in his story.”
As part of the programme, which encourages pupils to read for enjoyment, Tom learnt ways to choose books he’ll enjoy and had the chance to select three free books to keep.
“The books that you have given Tom have been an absolute joy,” Lucy added. “The school gave the books out in phases and Tom has been so excited to receive each new book. He has read all three books from cover-to-cover already, and you gave him the opportunity to read books he hadn't seen before.
“Tom actually asked me to put his iPad away and said, “It is taking me away from books!”. The iPad is now in a cupboard and Tom is reading non-stop. Long may it last!”