Take 10 to Read: A Global Opportunity to Celebrate Reading
Reading remains one of the most effective ways to improve educational outcomes, support wellbeing and expand opportunities for children and young people. Regular reading not only develops literacy skills but also broadens horizons, builds confidence and helps ensure that every child has access to the knowledge, vocabulary and experiences that underpin future success.
On 8th October, schools have the opportunity to take part in Take 10 to Read, a global initiative from the British Council and the National Literacy Trust. The event aims to set a new Guinness World Records™ title for the most people reading online over a 12-hour period.
The message is simple: whatever interests a young person, take ten minutes to read about it. Whether it’s a book, comic, magazine, poem or sports report, the campaign promotes reading as an accessible activity for everyone. By recognising that reading for pleasure can take many forms, the initiative helps remove barriers and encourages more children to engage with texts they genuinely enjoy.
This focus on accessibility is especially relevant for schools seeking to ensure that all children and young people can benefit from the opportunities that reading provides. Access to enjoyable reading experiences can play a vital role in developing literacy, supporting wellbeing and building the knowledge and vocabulary that enable success across the curriculum. The campaign also highlights the positive impact that reading can have on relaxation, resilience and mental health.
Schools can register for age-appropriate online sessions featuring authors and guest speakers, with each session including a shared ten-minute reading period that contributes to the world record attempt.
By taking part, schools can join a global community of readers, celebrate the importance of reading for pleasure and demonstrate how a simple ten-minute reading break can make a meaningful difference to children’s learning, wellbeing and future opportunities.
Find out more and register: https://www.britishcouncil.org/take-10-global-record-attempt



