Children brainstorm ideas to boost interest in books and reading

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory dress up day

The Eco-School Council from St John with St Michael CE Primary School in Shawforth have been selected to attend the finals of Lancashire Chairman’s Challenge 2014 in May, by their superb organisation of introducing a reading initiative into their school.

The children brainstormed their ideas as to what they felt needed improving in their school and set out ways in which they thought they could boost children’s interest in books and reading as well as getting parents on board to help with this.

They came up with "Parent Readers", A Reading Challenge Booklet which was differentiated for each year group and ability to link in with topics in class.

A Parent book swap, a children’s book swap, comic club, visits to the local library, a visit from the Lancashire Library Story Bus, a book sale with local Book Shop Bright Books from Shawclough and also organised a whole themed week on the marvellous author Roald Dahl, this linked in with Anti-Bullying through some of Roald Dahls characters such as Miss Trunchbull from Matilda.

Miss Kenyon, Eco-School Council co-ordinator is thrilled to bits the children, with help from parents, getting through to the finals for the third year in a row.

Last year the children received a runners up Highly Commended certificate and £50 for organising a Safety Week within their school and in 2012 they came third place for running a virtual marathon from Lands End to John O'Groats to encourage a healthier lifestyle.

This is the 10th year anniversary of The Lancashire Chairmans Challenge and everyone from St John with St Michael School and local community are wishing them the best of luck!