Students at Saint Paul’s enjoyed a week of book‑themed activities as they joined millions around the world in celebrating World Book Day, the world’s largest annual celebration of books and reading. World Book Day, designated by UNESCO, was celebrated in over 100 countries and aimed to inspire a lifelong love of reading. In the UK and Ireland, the initiative focused on helping young people discover the joy and value of books.
To spark students’ imaginations and deepen their enjoyment of reading, Saint Paul’s organised an exciting programme of events throughout the week. One of the highlights was a lively photobooth, where students dressed as their favourite literary characters and posed with themed props.
The school was proud to serve as a Community Distribution Hub, offering free World Book Day titles to local families. Families were invited to collect a book after school at the gates, and the giveaway was open to local primary schools, families and the wider community. Visitors were able to swap their Book Token for an official World Book Day book and take part in the shared celebration of reading.
Students also enjoyed an in‑school book giveaway. They were able to choose a free World Book Day title, exploring new stories, discovering favourite authors and celebrating the joy of reading. They exchanged their Book Tokens for official World Book Day books and took home stories that inspired them.
A particularly fun part of the celebrations was the World Book Day photobooth event.
Students dressed up or disguised themselves as characters from their favourite stories and posed for a special World Book Day photograph.
Props were provided by the school and the atmosphere was fantastic as students embraced the chance to share their love of reading in a creative way.
The activities were organised by the school librarian, Mrs Savova, with the help of student ambassadors from each year group.
Reflecting on the week, Mrs Savova said, “Our aim was always to help students discover reading as a source of enjoyment, curiosity and creativity. World Book Day created a wonderful buzz around books. When students throw themselves into the competitions and activities, you can see their confidence and enthusiasm for reading grow. These experiences will stay with them and helped build a lifelong love of books.”
