Monmouth schools are set to embrace reading in a big way as they prepare for the launch of the National Year of Reading 2026. The initiative, led by the Department for Education, aims to foster a love for literature and literacy among students and the wider community. Participating institutions include Haberdashers’ Monmouth School, Monmouth Comprehensive School, and the Monmouth Community Hub and Library, alongside various local creative groups.
Throughout the year, a diverse array of events will be hosted, including author visits, competitions, community sessions, storytelling events, and exhibitions. Notable authors such as M.G. Leonard, Daniel Morden, Ben Kane, and Sion Tomos Owen have already confirmed their participation in speaking engagements with students.
Community Collaboration for Reading Initiatives
The Head of Haberdashers’ Monmouth School, Mr. Melvyn Roffe, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “Reading is the gateway to so many incredible ideas, fascinating people and exciting new worlds. Haberdashers’ Monmouth School is delighted to be working with partners to celebrate the National Year of Reading in Monmouth and the surrounding area. I’m sure it will be a fantastic experience for our community.”
Similarly, Mr. Hugo Hutchison, Head of Monmouth Comprehensive School, emphasized the significance of reading for young people. “We feel incredibly lucky to be partnering with other local schools and community groups, forging productive relationships and creating inspired shared experiences for our young people together. We have many exciting events planned over the course of the year, and I hope that this partnership extends beyond the official initiative for 2026.”
Students are equally eager to engage in the festivities. Olive, a student at Haberdashers’ Monmouth School, shared her excitement: “I am really excited for all the events and author visits, and I feel it will encourage everyone to read more.” Her classmate, Dima, added, “It’s great to see people being intrigued about reading and learning more and getting involved in reading together.” Dan, a pupil from Monmouth Comprehensive School, highlighted the joy of reading, stating, “Reading is such a great way to learn and experience while having fun. The 2026 Year of Reading is going to promote this.”
Fostering Lifelong Literacy
Monmouth Library Lead, Lydia Dowding, praised the initiative, noting, “The National Year of Reading is an excellent opportunity to get Monmouth reading. We’re thrilled to be working with Monmouth’s schools on this initiative. By joining forces, we’re creating opportunities for young people to discover the joy of reading beyond the classroom and to connect with their local library as a lifelong resource.”
The sentiment was echoed by Helen Wragg, Chair of the Rolls Hall Strategy Group and Co-Director of Living Windows, who described the initiative as a celebration of Monmouth’s educational significance. Furthermore, Averil MacDonald, Chair of Monmouth u3a, added that many members enjoy sharing their passion for literature with younger generations. “We look forward to bringing our experience, enthusiasm and wisdom to support Monmouth’s Year of Reading initiatives with truly multigenerational engagement as recommended in the government’s campaign ambitions.”
As Monmouth prepares to kick off this ambitious initiative, the collective efforts of schools, libraries, and community organizations promise to create a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates reading and fosters a culture of literacy for all ages.
