ST Benedict’s Catholic Primary School in Midsomer Norton marked World Book Day with a vibrant programme of activities.

Throughout the day, pupils took part in partner reading sessions, pairing up with classmates to share stories and recommend favourite books. Children of different ages were encouraged to read together, building confidence, fluency and a shared enthusiasm for books.

Pupils also joined the national BBC World Book Day assembly, connecting St Benedict’s to schools across the country in a shared celebration of storytelling and imagination.

The celebration comes at a time of national concern about reading for pleasure. According to the National Literacy Trust’s 2025 survey, just 32.7 percent of children and young people aged eight to 18 say they enjoy reading in their free time, the lowest level recorded in 20 years, while only 18.7 percent read daily.

By hosting a wide variety of interactive and inclusive activities St Benedict’s aimed to demonstrate that reading can be social, exciting and central to school life.

Ellen Croker, headteacher at St Benedict's Catholic Primary School, said: “World Book Day was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the joy of reading together.

“Seeing older and younger pupils sharing books, and the excitement created by our many themed activities showed just how powerful stories can be in bringing our community together.

“We are committed to developing a lifelong love of reading in every child.”

Helen Taylor, CEO of the Dunstan Catholic Educational Trust, said: “It is wonderful to see St Benedict’s Catholic Primary School creating such engaging and inclusive opportunities for children to experience the joy of reading.

“Activities like partner reading not only build confidence and fluency, they also strengthen relationships and a shared culture of storytelling.

At a time when national data highlights a decline in reading for pleasure, events like this show the powerful role schools play in inspiring lifelong readers.”