The opportunity to participate in World Book Day early in March is never missed. It is an occasion that definitely releases everyone’s creativity and, without a doubt leads to lots of good fun being had by all. The Corinium Education Trust is working collaboratively with a wider group of schools to deliver a ‘Year of Reading’ in 2023.

Primary schools within The Corinium Education Trust took part in World Book Day this year, and, while some adjustments were made to the dates on which the event was held, no one missed out.

Emma Morrogh-Ryan, Headteacher, of Kemble Primary School, reflected, ‘World Book Day is always an exciting event. This year was no exception with children coming to school dressed as their favourite character. Staff joined in the fun too by dressing as Mr Men characters!’

During the morning, the children gave each other clues as to who they were and shared what they liked about their character’s story in assembly. In the afternoon, classes combined for ‘buddy reading’ and children chose a new book to take home from those donated in our book swap event.

The highlight of the day was the relaunch of the school’s library. The books have been reorganised and the library made more accessible. Emma Morrogh-Ryan and her team hope that pupils and parents will enjoy regular visits to read and share books both new and old.

In contrast, World Book Day at Chesterton Primary School was inspired by ‘The Day the Crayons Quit’. As a result, the school was awash with colour as each class was asked to dress as a different colour from the crayon box.

Pupils enjoyed the assembly where the book was shared, and they learnt about why each crayon had decided they just could not go on anymore! The teaching staff fully embraced getting into character, especially orange and yellow crayon! Surprisingly enough there were no volunteers to play the part of peach!

Back in classrooms, pupils completed activities based upon the book. These included quotes from the crayons, pictograms about favourite colours, and even a persuasive letter to a set of chairs who had also decided to quit!

Libby Pringle, Headteacher, reflected, ‘It was fantastic to see the whole school come together and engage in such an amusing and thought-provoking book. We plan to display work and photos in the library to celebrate a wonderful day.’

At Siddington C of E Primary School, World Book Day celebrations included many exciting activities.

Sian Tranter, English Lead, explains: ‘Firstly, we gave each child a potato to transform into their favourite book character. These were then brought into school for our display bookshelf. Our potato characters have been a huge hit with adults, children and parents alike. We are very proud of the efforts made by all to produce our book characters. We hope the potatoes last a little longer…’

Teachers all shared a favourite picture book with each class on rotation too.  The children enjoyed 4 ten-minute stories throughout the day. Additionally, Siddington C of E Primary School had an author visit: Ella Evalds, who wrote 'Granny Magic', shared her passion for writing with the children.

The Open The Book team also joined in making Mrs Tiggy-Winkle from Beatrix Potter and Aslan from The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe come to life.

‘I loved painting the potato and turning it into Papa Smurf. I like all our potatoes.’ Connor, Year 3.

‘I liked World Book Day because we got to decorate our potatoes. I made Elmer elephant.’ Emily, Reception.

On Wednesday 1 and Friday 3 March, Librarians Mrs Bond and Mrs Burton at Cirencester Deer Park School ran sponsored reading events, Readathons, on behalf of local charity Read for Good, who provide books and storytellers to children in hospitals across the country. Year 7 were introduced to the concept with 2 hours of midweek reading, whilst pupils in Years 8-10 spent the whole day (apart from break and lunchtime) immersed in their books. It is great to see the variety of books the pupils read. Read more...

Mrs Bond and Mrs Burton said: "We were thrilled that so many pupils wanted to take part in this year's Readathon. They will have raised a lot of money for a really good cause. Thank you all."