The Harris Group

_{By Charlotte Evans, Federation Literacy Lead}

Across the UK, reading for pleasure is at its lowest level since 2005. 

Only a third of children say they enjoy picking up a book in their free time, with disadvantaged students most at risk of missing out. Without access to books and welcoming reading spaces, too many children lose confidence, fall behind, and miss out on the worlds that reading can open up.

At Harris, we’re determined to change that story. Thanks to generous donor support, we’ve been investing in vibrant new libraries across our academies – places designed to spark curiosity, celebrate storytelling and help children rediscover the joy of reading.

At Harris Science Academy East London, a £10,000 gift transformed a tired space into a hub of imagination and learning. The impact has been clear: disadvantaged students there now outperform national averages, closing the attainment gap completely. Harris Primary Academy Croydon recently celebrated the opening of its new library too –not just shelves of books, but a lively environment where reading is part of daily life.

Our approach is simple but powerful: high-quality books, inspiring spaces, and a strong reading culture woven into every day. Through events with the National Literacy Trust, author visits and storytelling sessions, students begin to see themselves as readers and writers of the future.

With every new library, we’re rewriting the story on literacy in our schools-proving that with the right support, a love of reading can not only be reignited, it can thrive for life.

Top 5 ways Harris is boosting literacy for every child

1. Transforming reading cultures With donor support, we’re redesigning school libraries into welcoming, inspiring spaces that make reading irresistible. But it’s not just about the physical environment-it’s about creating an authentic and sustainable culture of reading. We share best practice across our network, hold academies to account through tight monitoring, and ensure that reading is embedded in the ethos of every school.
2. Putting books in every hand-and building a sense of belonging We’re investing in high-quality, diverse texts so every child can see themselves-and new worlds-in the stories they read. This isn’t just about access; it’s about identity, inclusion and belonging. When children feel seen in the books they read, they’re more likely to see themselves as readers for life.
3. Building daily reading habits Dedicated time every day for reading, supported by trained staff, helps children develop fluency and confidence. It’s a non-negotiable part of the school day-and a cornerstone of our literacy strategy.
4. Bringing books to life From author visits to storytelling events and work with the National Literacy Trust, we make reading a shared, exciting experience. These moments help children connect emotionally with stories and see reading as something joyful, not just academic.
5. Closing the attainment gap Our library projects have helped schools like Harris Science Academy East London lift disadvantaged pupils above national averages in literacy outcomes. The results speak for themselves: when children have access to books, inspiring spaces and a culture that values reading, they thrive.

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