Summer Reading Challenge 2026
7 Apr 26
The Summer Reading Challenge is a free, UK-wide programme run by The Reading Agency and public libraries to get children reading for enjoyment.
In 2025, nearly 600,000 children took part, reading over 11 million books. With 2026 being the National Year of Reading, schools can Go All In and make this year even bigger!
This year's theme is Read to the Beat! A music-focused challenge powered by Universal Music Group UK.
Here's why the Summer Reading Challenge matters for your school:
- Significantly improves reading skills and confidence
- Supports children's wellbeing throughout the summer
- Supports successful transition to new year groups and key stages
- Free for every child to take part
Visit the Summer Reading Challenge School Zone to register and download free resources, including presentations for assemblies and parent events, communications templates and pupil activity sheets to use during the summer term.