This year we have taken our love of reading to a new level by introducing dedicated reading time for Year 7 every day.
The Roll and Read program kicked off this year; an initiative designed to nurture a strong culture of reading for pleasure as students begin their Senior School journey. In 2027 this program will continue with Year 7 and Year 8, then in 2028 for Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9, and so on. So that our students begin high school with a love of reading that continues all the way through their senior schooling.
Research consistently highlights the benefits of reading for enjoyment: it strengthens academic performance, builds empathy, improves wellbeing, and supports the development of focus and cognitive stamina. Roll and Read provides dedicated daily time for students to engage in uninterrupted, self‑selected reading. Our students are encouraged to bring their own books to Form time (the start of every day when rolls are marked and everyone gets organised for their day), and the Senior School Library has supplied each Form Group with a box of brand‑new books and resources. Teachers have also created inviting book nooks in their classrooms, helping our students ease into a morning reading routine.
A key strength of the program is the modelling of reading by teachers—a practice shown to enhance adolescents’ motivation to read. With expert guidance and access to a diverse literature collection, our students are supported to discover reading that sparks curiosity, joy and connection.
Roll and Read reflects Ascham’s commitment to developing lifelong readers!
