During the second semester, pupils across Hastings School came together to celebrate Book Week 2026, with reading placed at the heart of learning throughout the school. With a special focus on stories from different cultures around the world, children explored new perspectives, discovered traditional tales and travelled across continents through the power of books and storytelling.

Throughout the week, classrooms were filled with imagination, discussion and creativity as students immersed themselves in literature from a wide range of backgrounds and traditions. The celebration highlighted not only the importance of reading in developing literacy skills, but also its ability to foster empathy, curiosity and cultural understanding.

One of the most exciting activities of the week was the school-wide classroom door competition, where each class transformed their classroom entrance into the cover of a favourite book. The results were truly impressive, with students demonstrating incredible attention to detail, originality and teamwork. From colourful illustrations to carefully crafted decorations, every door brought a different story vividly to life and transformed the school corridors into a celebration of literature and creativity.

We were also delighted to welcome parents into school to share stories with the children, helping to create a warm and collaborative reading environment across the community. These shared reading moments reflected the important role families play in nurturing a lifelong love of books and learning.

To mark World Book Day on 23rd April, pupils also took part in a special book swap inspired by the tradition of sharing books and roses. With the support of our Spanish department, children created beautiful handmade roses to accompany the books selected for the exchange. Each book was carefully wrapped, encouraging pupils not to judge a story by its cover, but instead to choose based on thoughtful reviews written by their classmates.

This activity became a wonderful way to promote reflective reading and meaningful recommendations between students, while also encouraging excitement around discovering new stories and authors.

The celebrations continued with students and staff coming dressed as their favourite book characters, bringing beloved stories to life across the school. From classic literary figures to modern fictional heroes, the costumes added colour, enthusiasm and a strong sense of community to the final days of Book Week.

Children also learned and performed a special song about reading, which they greatly enjoyed sharing throughout the celebrations. The joy and enthusiasm seen across the school reflected the important place reading holds within our learning community.

At Hastings School, we believe that reading opens doors to imagination, creativity and understanding. Book Week 2026 was a wonderful reminder of the power stories have to connect people, inspire curiosity and encourage children to become confident, thoughtful and enthusiastic learners.