Parents and carers as partners
As young people move through secondary education, their reading choices become increasingly personal, their interests diversify and competing demands on their time often make reading a lower priority. Research consistently highlights the significant influence that families have on young people's attitudes towards reading, even during the secondary years. When schools and families work together to promote reading as an enjoyable, meaningful and valued activity, teenagers are more likely to develop positive reading habits that can support their attainment, wellbeing and lifelong learning.
The purpose of this resource is to support secondary schools to engage parents and carers with reading for pleasure. It has been co-created by the sector, for the sector, and draws on contributions from secondary schools across the country who have generously shared a range of tried-and-tested initiatives. The examples and strategies reflect the diversity of school contexts and communities, recognising that there is no single model for successful parental engagement. Instead, the resource aims to offer a collection of adaptable ideas that schools can tailor to meet the needs of their own families and young people.
About this resource
This resource includes the following:
- A pack giving a range of practical approaches which schools and practitioners around the country have used to engage parents and carers in reading for pleasure
- A reflection tool inviting schools to review and refresh their current approaches in relation to six key strands: vision, strategy and leadership; communication with parents and carers; engagement opportunities; parental knowledge and confidence; targeted support; and impact and outcomes.
Together, we hope these resources inspire and equip schools to reimagine their approach to engaging with parents and carers in order to create a culture in which reading is valued beyond the classroom, conversations about reading are encouraged at home, and parents and carers are empowered as partners in nurturing lifelong readers.