07 February 2025
We are thrilled to announce the launch of Books and Banter, an initiative designed to bring together students in Years 7 to 10 and their parents in a shared reading experience.
Ideally, we would love to see male role models take up this challenge (time to bring your A-game, Dads!). Research shows that when male caregivers actively engage in reading with their sons, it boosts motivation, participation and confidence, helping to normalise reading as a male pursuit. That said, we know this might be a stretch for some and we welcome mums, grandparents, or another special person in your child’s life to buddy up instead.
The program is designed to inspire a love for reading, build strong reading habits and create opportunities for family conversations around books.
Why Join?
📖 Bonding Experience: The teenage years can be challenging even in the strongest relationships. A shared reading experience can create new points of connection and strengthen bonds.
📖 Boost Academic Success: Reading is a cornerstone of academic achievement enhancing focus, empathy, comprehension and critical thinking skills.
📖 Brain Development: Engaging with diverse texts stimulates brain development and nurtures creativity.
📖 Role Modelling: Parents play a crucial role in shaping lifelong reading habits. By reading together parents and sons can bond over stories and ideas reinforcing the joy of reading for pleasure.
How It Works
Sign Up: Join us for the official launch on Friday 21st February, from 7.45am – 8.30 am in the Miller Library. Enjoy tea, coffee, and a light breakfast while selecting a book from our curated list.
Parents and students can sign up at the event here: Books & Banter Breakfast
To explore the available books which are part of Books & Banter, head here: Books & Banter Reading List
Ordering: At the breakfast, you’ll have the opportunity to order your chosen book(s). Orders will be placed through Dillons and delivered to your son. The cost will be charged to your school account. Families can choose to order one book to share or two books (one for the adult and one for the child).
Read Together: Enjoy reading the selected book and sharing the experience.
Discuss: To support your reading journey, we’ll email discussion questions and reading prompts to guide your conversations.
Don’t miss out on this wonderful opportunity to be part of a community that celebrates the joy of reading. Let’s continue to build a vibrant reading culture at St Peter’s College one book at a time!
Ms Katherine Pitkin
Head of Library and Archive Services
