Schools across North Tyneside came together today to celebrate the first-ever Summer Book-nic, a borough-wide virtual event dedicated to promoting reading for pleasure among young people.
Organised by the School Improvement team at Education North Tyneside, the Summer Book-nic brought around 6,000 pupils of all ages together for a day of reading, storytelling, and community connection.
Schools hosted their own “reading picnics,” filled with creative, book-themed activities designed to spark curiosity and a lifelong love of reading.
“We know that reading for pleasure is closely linked to academic success and personal development,” said Lisa Ramshaw, Head of Service Education and Inclusion.
“It was wonderful to see so many pupils, teachers, and families engaging with books in such joyful and meaningful ways. The Summer Book-nic was all about celebrating stories and encouraging children to find their own love of reading.”
Each participating school received a free resource pack with activity ideas tailored to different age groups, planning guidance, and suggestions for involving parents and carers. The Schools Library Service also supported the event with additional resources and activities.
From classroom corners to sunny school fields, the day was filled with shared stories, laughter, and a sense of community. Including at Marine Park where the English Leads, Elizabeth Souter and Claire McGarr said:
"At Marine Park, we feel reading for pleasure is extremely important and make sure that each week children are given time to read for enjoyment. We hold termly book swaps where they swap books from home, bringing one in and returning with a new adventure to enjoy.
“Today's North Tyneside Book-Nic is a celebration of our love of reading. Pupils have decorated biscuits, made bunting and party hats, and settled onto cosy blankets to share stories together.
“This year marks 120 years of reading at Marine Park - and the love of reading is stronger than ever."
The event was a resounding success, with hundreds of pupils across the region taking part. Education North Tyneside is already looking ahead to future events that continue to champion the power of reading.
Highlights from the day are being shared on the Education North Tyneside website, celebrating the creativity and enthusiasm of schools across the North East.