For Year 7 Students

Students in Year 7 are paired with a Year 9 reading buddy. This isn’t about being a “perfect reader.” It’s about having someone to chat with, discover new stories, and find a book that grabs you.

Between now and April, you’ll get an email from Dr Hayward inviting you to the library to meet your buddy. You’ll spend 4 weeks together on Mondays during form time, talking, reading, and choosing books that suit you. Graphic novels? Mystery? Football? Comedy? Whatever you enjoy.

Just register with your form tutor first, then head to the library by 8:30am.

Your reading buddy will read aloud to you, unless you ask to read aloud. No pressure.  Just a break from the usual routine and a chance to find something you enjoy.

If you have any questions, email Dr Hayward (ehayward@channing.co.uk).

The Reading Buddy Programme is here to help you grow in confidence and really enjoy understanding what you read. It’s a chance to spark a love of stories and discover books that you’ll want to keep exploring. Along the way, it gently expands your vocabulary and language skills, all while giving you the opportunity to connect with older students and learn from them.

If you're currently in Year 8, watch this space. Dr Hayward will be looking to recruit volunteers in the summer term for next year's programme.