READING NEWSLETTER
Issue No. 20 May 2026
Welcome to the latest edition of our Reading Newsletter. As we reflect on the first half term of the Easter Term, we take this opportunity to celebrate the continued growth of reading across the school. This edition is filled with highlights and achievements: from pupils’ engagement with Sparx Reader to a range of staff and student reading recommendations to inspire the weeks ahead. As always, we are delighted to share contributions from both staff and pupils, showcasing the flourishing reading culture at St Cuthbert’s and the enjoyment that reading continues to bring to our community.
Sparks Fly on SparxReader!
This term, pupils across the school have truly turned up the heat on reading, with some incredible Sparx Reader totals lighting up the leader board. Taking first place in spectacular fashion was Umar in Year 7, who blazed ahead with an astonishing 162,941 SRP, which equates to 272 hours of careful reading. What a phenomenal achievement that reflects dedication and enthusiasm for reading. Close behind in second place was Ryan, also in Year 7, who has achieved a brilliant 122,010 SRP, or 203 hours of careful reading. In third place with a still-impressive 59,784 SRP is Josiah, completing 99 hours of careful reading. Together, pupils have shown that reading really can spark imagination, fuel curiosity, and ignite success. It is fantastic to see such determination and friendly competition across the school, with so many pupils developing positive reading habits along the way. We cannot wait to see which year group keeps the reading flame burning brightest next term.
Sparx and Shine! Year 7–9 forms went head-to-head in a fiercely competitive SparxReader challenge, sparking a real buzz across the school. After weeks of dedication, form 7H1 came out on top for the Epiphany Term, igniting the leader board with their outstanding effort. Their success was celebrated in style with a well-earned rewards breakfast in the library, where donuts disappeared almost as quickly as reading points were earned! Alongside games and good company, the morning was a fitting reward for a form that truly set the SparxReader challenge alight.