READING NEWSLETTER
Issue No. 18 February 2026
Welcome to the first St Cuthbert’s Reading Newsletter of 2026. In this edition, we celebrate reading across the school as we reflect on a fantastic start to the Epiphany term. Inside, you will find a celebration of Sparx Reader success and a selection of reading recommendations to enjoy over the coming weeks. As always, we have included contributions from staff and pupils, showcasing the brilliant reading culture at St Cuthbert’s.
SRP Superstars: Year 7 on the Podium!
Three of our Year 7 pupils have set an incredible standard so far this academic year by securing 1st, 2nd and 3rd place across the whole of Key Stage 3 for their Sparx Reader Points. Well done to Umar (7H1), who has read for 155 hours since September; Josiah (7H1) who has read for 90 hours, and Eyueal (7A1) who has read for 54 hours. Their dedication, consistency and enthusiasm for reading have truly paid off, and they should be extremely proud of this fantastic achievement. It is brilliant to see such a strong reading culture being led by our youngest pupils, showing that hard work and reading for pleasure really do make a difference. We look forward to seeing even more pupils rise to the challenge as the competition continues!
Forming great readers This term, we launched the Sparx Reader Form Competition, bringing a buzz of friendly competition to form time reading. Form classes are going head-tohead to earn the most Sparx Reader Points (SRP) by the end of the term, with reading effort and consistency really making the difference. The topperforming form in Years 7, 8 and 9 will each receive a class prize at the end of term. It is an exciting way to motivate readers, build teamwork, and celebrate the fantastic achievements our pupils continue to make with Sparx Reader.