Join the Teachers' Reading Challenge now!
Summer is a time for teachers to recharge after a demanding school year. But what if there was a way to enhance your teaching toolkit that feels like a treat rather than summer homework?
The Teachers' Reading Challenge offers exactly that - a low-commitment, high-impact way to discover brilliant children's books while you're relaxing over the holidays. Running from 25 June to 31 October 2025, this free initiative transforms professional development into a quick, fun activity that will help you when you return to the classroom in September.
What Is the Teachers' Reading Challenge?
Similar to the Summer Reading Challenge, this program, run by The Reading Agency and The Open University with support from HarperCollins UK, is designed for educators looking to expand their knowledge of children's literature without the pressure of traditional CPD.
Think of it as a personal reading adventure with professional benefits. You'll discover diverse, contemporary children's books, connect with a community of like-minded educators, and access beautifully designed resources—all while developing your Reading for Pleasure pedagogy.
The challenge is open to all education professionals, including primary teachers, but also teaching assistants, trainee teachers, librarians, and senior leaders. No experience required, just curiosity about children's books.
How the Challenge Works
The process couldn't be simpler:
Step 1: Sign Up
Create your free account at teachersreadingchallenge.org.uk. You'll immediately access thousands of book recommendations, reviews from fellow educators, and downloadable resources for your classroom.
Set a realistic reading goal that works for your summer plans. Some participants aim to read five books, others target twenty. The important thing is choosing a number that feels achievable and enjoyable.
Step 2: Choose Your Books
Browse recommended reads or pick titles that catch your eye. The platform offers curated lists of diverse, contemporary children's literature across all age ranges and interests.
Consider linking your challenge participation with your pupils' Summer Reading Challenge activities. Many teachers enjoy reading the same books their students are discovering, creating natural opportunities for book talk when school resumes.
Step 3: Read and Log
As you read, log your books and share reviews with the community. Your insights help fellow educators discover their next great classroom read.
Step 4: Earn Badges
Complete different challenges to earn digital badges that celebrate your achievements and reading journey.
Why Summer Is Perfect for the Challenge
Research shows that teachers' knowledge of children's literature is vital for creating rich reading curricula. Summer is ideal for building this knowledge at a relaxed pace, making your reading choices count towards your professional development.
The challenge acknowledges that you need downtime. It's not about adding to your workload—it's about making your existing summer reading more purposeful and connected to your classroom practice. There are no mandatory deadlines, required reading lists, or complicated assignments. You read what interests you, when you want to read it.
The Benefits That Matter
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Expand Your Literary Toolkit: Discover books that will enhance your classroom recommendations.
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Join a Supportive Community: Connect with educators nationwide, sharing reviews and insights.
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Access Quality Resources: Download engaging classroom materials that support your Reading for Pleasure pedagogy.
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Enjoyable Professional Development: Earn CPD credit while doing something you love.
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Address the Reading Crisis: Your enhanced knowledge directly impacts your students' success.
Building Bridges to September
The knowledge gained during the challenge pays dividends when you return to the classroom. Participants often report increased confidence in book recommendations, improved book talk sessions, and stronger connections with pupils through shared reading experiences.
You'll start the new academic year with fresh titles to recommend, contemporary stories that reflect your pupils' experiences, and a deeper understanding of what makes children's literature engaging.
The Research Behind the Challenge
The Teachers' Reading Challenge isn't just a nice idea—it's based on solid educational research. The Open University's research emphasises that when teachers are passionate and knowledgeable about books, this enthusiasm transfers to pupils.
Your Summer, Enhanced
Transform your summer reading into professional empowerment. Sign up for the Teachers' Reading Challenge at teachersreadingchallenge.org.uk and discover why it's a favourite among educators.
