Recently, we marked World Book Day with a range of exciting activities across its schools, celebrating reading and inspiring pupils at every stage of their education. Each school brought the day to life in its own unique way, creating memorable experiences that encouraged children and young people to engage with books and stories.

At St Paul’s Way Secondary, the annual Battle of the Books saw teachers pitching their favourite titles while pupils voted enthusiastically. Almost 100,000 votes were cast, highlighting the excitement and engagement generated by the event and the growing impact of the school’s library investment.

St Paul’s Way Primary focused on interactive reading activities. Year 1 explored stories in depth, Reception classes enjoyed storytelling sessions, and Nursery pupils joined Year 6 buddies for paired reading. The whole-school assembly brought the community together, celebrating stories and inspiring curiosity.

Sir William Burrough Primary staged its famous parade, where children dressed as their favourite characters and paraded for parents and carers. The event combined creativity and performance with a love of books, strengthening community bonds and highlighting the joy of reading.

Cyril Jackson Primary encouraged pupils to dress as characters from their favourite books while linking the day to the school’s reading challenge, where every child aims to read 200 books before they turn eleven. The activities combined imagination with aspiration, motivating children to reach ambitious reading goals.

Royal Greenwich Trust School hosted the National Literacy Trust World Book Day online quiz, engaging pupils in teams to test their knowledge of books and authors. The quiz encouraged collaboration, problem solving and teamwork, making reading both educational and fun.

Across the Trust, World Book Day celebrated creativity, curiosity and community, reflecting University Schools Trust’s mission to provide transformational education for all. By inspiring a love of reading and learning, the Trust helps every pupil to reach their full potential and develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to thrive.