2026 is the National Year of Reading

At The East Manchester Academy, we believe that reading is the foundation of learning and a vital key to future success. That’s why we are proudly committed to making reading a top priority through our TEMA Read programme, teaching reading across our curriculum and our participation in national events like The Year of Reading initiative.

The East Manchester Academy Champions Reading for Student Success

Throughout the year, TEMA will host a range of activities to celebrate reading, including themed events, author visits, and reading challenges. These initiatives aim to make reading enjoyable and rewarding for every student.

Why Reading Matters

Research shows that regular reading improves vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking skills, all of which are essential for academic achievement and lifelong success. Reading also sparks imagination, builds empathy, and opens doors to new worlds and ideas.

How Can We Support Our Young People?

Parents and carers play a crucial role in fostering a love of reading at home. Here are some simple ways to help:

Encourage daily reading – even 10 minutes a day makes a difference
Discuss books together – ask questions and share opinions
Help choose engaging books – select stories that match your child’s interests and reading level
Model reading – let your child see you enjoying a book or magazine

Our staff are always happy to recommend age-appropriate and exciting titles to keep students motivated.

Student during a trip to Chetham’s Library in January 2026

A Special Visit to Chetham’s Library

As part of our commitment to enriching students’ reading experiences, a group of Year 8 students visited Chetham’s Library in Manchester on Tuesday 13th January. Chetham’s is the oldest public library in the English-speaking world, and the visit gave students a unique opportunity to explore its historic collections and learn about the importance of books throughout history.

Visits like this are invaluable. They help students see English beyond the classroom and engage with texts in a meaningful, memorable way. The students were a credit to the academy.
Ms Dearden, Teacher of English

It made English feel more exciting and real.
A Year 8 student

TEMA Reads

All students have access to Beswick Library and Manchester Central Library in order to borrow books that interest them!

At TEMA, reading isn’t just an activity — it’s a pathway to success. Together, with the support of parents/carers and our community, we can inspire every student to become a confident, enthusiastic reader.

If you are looking for ideas to inspire our young readers, please take a look at the recommended reading lists on our Reading for Pleasure page.

Find out more about World Book Day and the free books students can access here: www.worldbookday.com/books

Our wonderful Student Leaders promoting World Book Day at parents’ evening in 2025