English Faculty
Drop Everything and Read!
A New Chapter in Our School’s Reading Journey
If you’ve ever lost track of time because you were so engrossed in a book, then you know the sheer wonder of reading. A good story has the power to transport us to different worlds, introduce us to unforgettable characters, and help us understand life from new perspectives. That’s exactly what we want for our students—to experience the joy of reading and build the skills they need to become thoughtful, confident readers.
That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce Drop Everything and Read (DEAR), launching this Wednesday morning! Every week during Pastoral Care class, the entire school will pause, grab their books, and immerse themselves in a world of words.
Why Reading? And Why Now?
The NSW curriculum has placed a renewed focus on deep reading, comprehension, and analysis, which means students will be assessed not just on their ability to read, but on their ability to engage with texts, think critically, and express their understanding. Reading isn’t just about finishing a book—it’s about making meaning, questioning ideas, and making connections.
More importantly, strong readers become strong writers. The Stage 6 English unit Reading to Write highlights how the best way to develop writing skills is through exposure to a wide range of texts, voices, and styles. When students read regularly, they absorb new vocabulary, see grammar and structure in action, and learn how to craft their own ideas with clarity and confidence.
Reading also shapes the way we see the world. Through books, students encounter diverse perspectives, different cultures, and a wide range of values and beliefs. The NSW English curriculum emphasises the importance of reading as a way to challenge ideas, critique assumptions, and engage with texts that inspire them to think deeply about themselves and the society they live in. When students explore different voices—whether from their own backyard or across the globe—they learn to question, empathise, and ultimately, make the world a better place.
To support this, students have borrowed a book to read independently and will complete reading assessments as part of their formal English grades. Whether it’s a thrilling adventure, a historical drama, or a classic novel, the goal is to build confident, lifelong readers who can engage with texts in a meaningful way—and in turn, become articulate, insightful writers.
How Can Parents Help?
We know that fostering a love of reading doesn’t just happen at school—it starts at home! Here’s how you can support your child in making reading a priority:
📖 Make time for reading – Encourage your child to set aside 15-20 minutes each evening to read. You might even read together or discuss their book over dinner.
📖 Create a reading-friendly environment – A quiet, comfortable space can make all the difference in helping students focus and enjoy their book.
📖 Ask about their reading – Simple questions like “What’s happening in the story?” or “What do you think will happen next?” encourage deeper engagement.
📖 Be a reading role model – Kids are more likely to see reading as valuable if they see the adults in their life enjoying books too!
Turning Pages, One Wednesday at a Time
We are so excited to make reading a central part of our school culture. With DEAR, we’re not just promoting literacy—we’re building a community of readers. Books give students the tools to question, analyse, and see the world through different lenses. They empower young minds to think critically about what they read, challenge ideas, and imagine new possibilities for the future.
So let’s embrace the magic (yes, the power!) of storytelling and give every student the chance to discover a book that speaks to them.
📚 DEAR begins this Wednesday. Let’s make it count!