Scottish reading scheme extended following success

A scheme which encourages Scottish children to read more is being extended to 173,000 pupils.

The First Minister’s Reading Challenge, which was introduced in 2016 in partnership with the Scottish Book Trust, will now be open to children in Primary 1 to 7. This comes after the scheme was successful for primary levels 4 to 7.

It aims to help children develop a life-long love of books by choosing from a selected list of 100 top titles designed as a source of inspiration, which can then be added into a Reading Passport.

The announcement was made to coincide with World Book Day.

First Minister Nicola Stugeon said: “The First Ministers’ Reading Challenge has been a fantastic success since it was launched last year, with almost three quarters of schools across Scotland taking part.

“Reading is one of life’s greatest pleasures, and the Reading Challenge is opening up a world of adventure and fun for young people as well as giving them vital literacy and language skills.”

She added: “Education is, and always will be, a key priority for this government and I passionately believe that the Reading Challenge is an important addition to the investment of £750 million over the next five years in measures and reforms to close the attainment gap in Scotland.”