Changing the Story for Boys and Reading

In Australia, there is growing concern about the decline in reading among teenage boys. Data from Australia Reads shows that young men, particularly those aged 15-24, are the least likely group to read for pleasure on any given day. A significant concern is that nearly 30% of senior school students reported not reading or listening to a single book in the past year.

Research has shown that boys are more likely to disengage from reading as they move through secondary school. Contributing factors include the lure of digital entertainment, limited time due to sport and socialising and the perception that reading is not a valued activity among peers. Yet, at Sandringham College, many boys are bucking the trend, with a strong number actively engaging in reading for pleasure, demonstrating that our students value reading. The disengagement of many young males isn't just about missing out on books; it can limit vocabulary development, critical thinking, and academic performance across all subjects. Studies have also linked regular reading to improved well-being, empathy, and resilience— skills that are especially valuable for our young people as they navigate adolescence and today's world.

Reassuringly, visible role models are beginning to emerge and shift these perceptions. Luke Bateman, a former NRL player who has gained a wide following on Instagram and BookTok, has been vocal about the need to normalise reading for our young males. Similarly, NBA superstar Steph Curry has promoted children's literacy through his own books and community projects, showing that reading is a strength that fuels imagination and confidence. Closer to home, Collingwood captain Darcy Moore has shared his belief in the power of reading to see the world differently and strengthen the mind both on and off the ground. These role models reinforce the message that reading should never be dismissed as "uncool," but rather embraced as a skill that builds both intellect and character.

At Sandringham College, our library is committed to finding ways to engage all our young people in reading. This includes book chats during reading sessions, conversations with students about the books they enjoy, updating the Sandringham College Library Website and displays, and encouraging our students to share recommendations. We also provide a collection that is fresh and relevant by keeping up to date with the latest titles and ensuring a diverse range of books are available, a collection where our people see themselves in the stories. Together, these efforts create an environment where reading is visible, celebrated, and accessible to every one of our young people.

Book Week 2026

With Book Week 2025 done and dusted, the theme for 2026 has already been announced: Symphony of Stories.

A symphony is created when many instruments come together, each one adding its own sound to make something powerful and beautiful. Stories work in the same way; when words, characters, and ideas blend in perfect harmony, they create a book you can't put down.

The theme for 2026 is a reminder that every story has its own rhythm and melody. Whether it makes us laugh, wonder, or even bring a tear to our eyes, each story adds to the great symphony of reading that connects us all.

I'm really excited to start planning our celebrations for next year! One idea is to invite the Music Department to perform at lunchtime while students are read to out loud, combining the beauty of live music with the magic of stories. It promises to be a celebration that brings the Symphony of Stories to life. So watch this page!

Writing Club

Each Friday during lunchtime, the library becomes a creative hub for our talented emerging writers. Students come together to share ideas, workshop their stories, and enjoy the space to write alongside others who share a love for storytelling.

As part of the club, our young writers are encouraged to enter a variety of competitions sourced for them.

Our writers are especially excited about the upcoming annual Sandringham College Library Halloween Short Story Competition. The competition is open to all students in years 7-11. It is a chance for students to let their imaginations run wild with spooky, funny or thrilling tales.

I am really looking forward to reading their work. Ms Amy Porter (College Principal) will be one of the guest judges. Details for the competition will be released during the first week of Term 4. Winners will be published in a future newsletter.

R U OK? Day

Students created messages of kindness to place around the library for RUOK Day.

Book Corner

Top 5 borrowers and the last book they borrowed:

Lila Billings Year 8 (We Three Heroes Bk.4.5 by Lynette Noni)
Mira Frolova Year 8 (The Battle of the Labyrinth, Bk.4 by Rick Riordan)
Nrip Prajapati Year 7 (One Piece Vol. 5 by Eiichiro Oda)
Hazel Thien Year 8 (Reckless Bk.2 by Lauren Roberts)
Lachlan Russell Year 9 (Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief Bk.1 by Rick Riordan)

Top 5 Books (in no order):

Guts by Raina Telgemeier
One of Us Is Lying by Karen McManus
Oscar Piastri: Racing Legends by Maurice Hamilton
Divergent by Veronica Roth
Bake with Brooki by Brooke Bellamy

Lunchtime Vibes

Coming in Term 4

UNO Tournament (Bluff Road)

Halloween Short Story Competition (Years 7-11)

Durban Landscaping and Garden Maintenance

Thank you to Durban Landscaping and Garden Maintenance for their generous donation of books on the environment, sustainability and gardening. This thoughtful gift enriches our library collection and supports student learning.

We also appreciate the care and attention they put into maintaining our college gardens, ensuring the grounds remain welcoming to everyone.

Access and Operating Hours

Students can access the Sandringham College Library Website 24/7.

Library operating hours for both campuses:

8 am to 4.30 pm Monday to Thursday

8 am to 3.00 pm Friday

Sport

Erin Carter | Sports Coordinator

Year 7 Sport

Year 8 Sport

Intermediate Sport

Kingston Athletics

Lacrosse Victoria State Championships

Ultimate Frisbee - Victorian High School State Championships