At Durrington High School, something remarkable has been happening—students are reading more than ever before. What started as a new reading strategy in September has quickly grown into a whole-school movement, transforming the library into one of the busiest and most vibrant spaces on campus.
The initiative, aimed at Key Stage 3 students, set out with a simple, yet powerful goal: to get every student reading for pleasure. To make this happen, the school introduced five ‘reading windows’ across the year. During each window, every student is expected to read a fiction or non-fiction book of at least 100 pages.
At first, not everyone was convinced. Some students were reluctant to pick up a book. However, that quickly changed. Now, it’s a common sight to see students reading during break and lunchtime, fully immersed in their chosen stories.
A big part of this success comes from the support system around the students. Teachers, tutors, the English department, and library staff have all played a role in encouraging reading. Even staff members have joined in by logging the books they are enjoying and sharing what they’re reading to inspire students.
The results have been impressive. Out of 955 students, only 46 have not completed the reading target—that’s less than 5%. Even more striking, every single Year 7 student has completed the task.
Many students have gone beyond their best, reading far beyond their expectations. Over 50% have read more than four books this academic year, while more than 10% have read over ten books. Some students have shown extraordinary dedication: 24 students have read more than 25 books, 10 students have reached 50 books, and 6 students have read an incredible 75 books!
To celebrate these achievements, the school regularly holds reading assemblies where students receive certificates and praise in recognition of their accomplishments. There are also plans in the making for a special awards breakfast for those who have read more than ten books this year.
At the centre of it all is the school library—a welcoming, lively space that offers much more than just books. With 15,000 titles available, students can read, complete homework, play games, do puzzles, or simply spend time with friends. The library is open before and after school, as well as during breaks and lunchtime, making it accessible to everyone.
The school has also introduced clubs such as Book Club and Silent Reading Club, held every Thursday. Themed events throughout the year—like ‘March into Cooking’ and a Christmas Advent celebration—help keep reading fun and engaging. This month, students can even earn extra KAPP points by reading books with a geography theme.
The library’s influence extends beyond current students. Year 6 parents have been invited to coffee mornings in the library, and the library manager will be visiting feeder schools to help younger students transition smoothly into secondary school reading.
Looking ahead, the library is set to host exciting events, including The Amazing Book Awards for the first time in 15 years! Six well-known young adult authors will visit to talk about their work, sign books and chat with students and their families. There are also plans for live acoustic performances by students, adding another creative dimension to the space.
Mrs Dacosta, the school’s Library Manager, summed it up best:
“I’m proud to say that the library has become the beating heart of the school. We have entwined ourselves with all of the school subjects, to create an environment where everyone feels welcome.”
Mr Tharby, co-leader of English, added: “Reading is so important to us at Durrington because it is the entitlement of all students to leave our school as articulate, well-read and empathetic young adults. Developing a reading habit at a young age is essential for both academic success and wellbeing, particularly as we now live in a world dominated by technology, smartphones and social media, where it has become increasingly hard to pay attention to one thing for any longer than a few minutes.”
With such strong engagement and enthusiasm, it’s clear that reading at Durrington High School is no longer just a task—it’s a strong culture of which the school is extremely proud.
‘Going beyond our best through Kindness, Aspiration, Perseverance & Pride.’
Prospective parents, carers, students and their families are invited to come along to Durrington High School’s open evening which takes place on Thursday 1st October 2026.