The Daily Chapter: Why Reading Matters (More Than Ever)

In the English faculty, we talk a lot about books—but reading isn't just English homework. It is the single most effective way to sharpen the mind across every subject. Whether it’s a Year 7 student diving into their first fantasy epic or a Year 12 student deconstructing complex non-fiction, regular reading is the ultimate cognitive workout. Here’s why we’re pushing for 20 minutes a day:

• The Vocabulary Edge: Students who read for pleasure are exposed to 50% more words than those who only consume digital media. This directly boosts performance in Science, History, and beyond.

• Mental Fitness: Immersing yourself in a story reduces stress and builds deep focus—a rare skill in a world of 15-second videos.

• The Empathy Factor: Literature allows us to live a thousand lives. It builds the emotional intelligence needed to navigate the real world.

How to Support Reading at Home: A Guide for Parents

Many parents ask how they can help their teenagers stay engaged with reading as school gets busier. The good news? You don’t need to be a literary expert to make a difference. It’s about moving reading from a "school task" to a natural part of daily life.

Here are five simple ways to foster a reading culture at home:

• Be a Reading Role Model: Teenagers are more likely to pick up a book if they see the adults in the house doing the same. Let them see you reading for pleasure—whether it’s a novel, a biography, or a long-form news article.

• Prioritise Choice over Classics: Independent reading should be driven by interest. Graphic novels, hobbyist magazines, and audiobooks all build vital literacy skills and cognitive stamina. If they enjoy it, they’ll stick with it.

• Create Reading Pockets: Between sport, part-time jobs, and homework, a 30-minute block can feel daunting. Encourage "pockets" of reading—10 minutes before bed or while waiting for a sibling at practice can make a huge difference over a week.

• Make it Social: Try a family book club approach. Read the same book as your teen and chat about it over dinner. Ask open-ended questions like, "What do you think that character should have done instead?" rather than testing them on the plot.

• Connect Screen to Page: If your child is obsessed with a particular Netflix series or movie, find the book it was based on. It’s a great hook or students who aren't sure where to start.

Our Challenge: Encourage your child to put the phone away and pick up a book tonight. It doesn’t have to be a classic—graphic novels, thrillers, and biographies all count. If they’re stuck for a choice, our faculty and the library team are ready with tailored recommendations for every interest. Final resort - try out your local library.

Mrs Diana Di Cola

English Coordinator