World Book Day 2026 was celebrated in wonderful, imaginative and meaningful ways across our Manor Hall schools. From author visits and creative arts to book exchanges and cosy reading spots, our pupils embraced the joy of stories as part of our ongoing commitment to the National Year of Reading. Here are just some of the highlights from across the Trust.
Rocklands Primary School
Rocklands burst into colour as pupils and staff arrived dressed as beloved book characters—including favourites from Room on the Broom, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, Paddington, Minions and more.
The day also marked the launch of the school’s new Book Club, encouraging pupils to explore books for pleasure and share their Book of the Month recommendations, with final choices made by the School Council.
Learners enjoyed drama, role play, story sharing, bookmark making, and live online sessions with the BBC and Michael Rosen. Some pupils even visited a local shop to use their World Book Day tokens to choose a brand‑new book to share with friends.
Cicely Haughton School
At Cicely Haughton, pupils were invited to read their favourite books in their favourite spots—capturing peaceful, joyful moments that celebrate reading for wellbeing and pleasure.
Springfield School
Springfield embraced a wonderfully creative theme this year, linking their celebrations to class novels and their love of storytelling.
Pupils and staff wore pyjamas as part of the school’s ongoing Bedtime Stories project, where staff record monthly stories for families.
The school welcomed artist Gavin Bowyer and former pupil Reece, who worked with pupils to produce stunning book‑inspired artwork. These pieces will be showcased at the Manor Hall Music and Arts Festival later this year, celebrating the Trust value that Everyone Belongs, Everyone Learns, Everyone Grows.
Oakfield Lodge School
Oakfield Lodge celebrated with creativity and enthusiasm, with staff joining pupils in costume.
A Book Exchange ran during break and lunch, giving pupils the opportunity to swap tokens for books. The school also awarded Golden Tickets to pupils with the best lesson scores of the day—treating them to a well‑deserved sweet reward.
Chaselea Alternative Provision
Chaselea enjoyed a jam‑packed World Book Day full of activities that encouraged both creativity and literacy. Pupils took part in writing competitions, read‑and‑relax sessions, and a special Q&A with a published author.
To make the day even more memorable, every pupil received a free signed copy of Miss Clark’s book. Staff also joined in, dressing as their favourite characters and delivering themed lessons across the curriculum.
Student reviews will be shared alongside their photos.
The Meadows School
The Meadows transformed into a world of stories, characters and creativity. Staff and students arrived dressed as iconic figures from books and comics, filling the school with colour and excitement.
One of the highlights of the day was the Masked Reader event, where teachers used digital masks while reading extracts from favourite books. Pupils loved guessing who was behind each reading, sparking curiosity and great conversations about genres, authors and storytelling.
Across the school, classes collaborated to create beautiful foyer displays linked to their current reads—wonderful celebrations of imagination and teamwork.
World Book Day at The Meadows reminded everyone of the magic that reading can bring to everyday school life.
Shenstone Lodge School
Shenstone Lodge were thrilled to welcome Dr Andy Cope, who joined pupils for an engaging and inspiring session that left everyone feeling uplifted and motivated. Dr Cope’s visit added a special spark to their celebrations and reinforced the power of stories, positivity and human connection.
Celebrating Reading Across the Trust
World Book Day 2026 showcased the creativity, passion and enthusiasm for reading that shines across our schools. Whether through art, author sessions, competitions, costumes, book clubs or quiet reading moments, our pupils reminded us how powerful stories can be in helping us imagine, learn, connect and grow.
Happy World Book Day from everyone at Manor Hall Academy Trust — where Everyone Belongs, Everyone Learns, and Everyone Grows.
