As the summer holidays approach, we know that your children will soon have more time to relax and enjoy themselves. We hope that part of this time will be spent reading — an activity that is not only essential for academic development but also a powerful way to unwind, explore new perspectives, and support mental wellbeing.

With this in mind, The Four Cs Multi Academy Trust are delighted to invite you to a special evening being held at Manor Drive Secondary Academy dedicated to promoting a love of reading. During this event, we will share practical ideas and inspiration to help support your child’s reading at home, while also highlighting the many lifelong benefits of regular reading.

This event is aimed at Year 7, 8 and 9 students and parents from our Trust secondary schools as well as Year 6 children from primary schools who have been offered admission at either Manor Drive Secondary Academy, Arthur Mellows Village College or Ken Stimpson Academy from September.

During the event, staff from secondary schools across The Four Cs Trust will be available to provide personalised guidance and advice on how to support all types of readers, including those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), English as an Additional Language (EAL) and Gifted and Talented learners. Research also shows that teenagers and boys in particular have less motivation to read so advice will be available for those who may each benefit from different approaches to foster a genuine love for reading.

We are thrilled to welcome acclaimed teen author Ross Welford as our guest speaker. Ross will share his passion for storytelling and the impact of reading, providing encouragement and inspiration to students and families alike. Every student who attends the event will receive a free copy of one of Ross Welford’s books, which he will personally sign on the evening.

In addition, the Scholastic Book Fair will be available during the event, offering a wide selection of engaging books for secondary-aged students. You may also browse and purchase books online in advance by entering the school postcode PE4 7EP and selecting Manor Drive Secondary Academy: Scholastic Payment Portal.

As part of our wider commitment to promoting literacy, we will also be signposting local literacy-focused events and activities taking place over the summer holidays. Information on  library programmes and reading challenges — particularly those run by local libraries will be shared at the event. These opportunities are a great way to keep students engaged with reading in fun and social ways throughout the summer holidays.

To secure a place, please confirm your attendance using the link below by 9.00 am on Monday 30 June and include your child’s name and school. This will ensure they receive a free copy of a Ross Welford book. Link: https://forms.office.com/e/r7Ug1GLtCR

We very much hope you can join us along with your child for this inspiring evening. Your support plays a vital role in nurturing your child’s love of reading and their future development.