Premier's Reading Challenge Now Open

The Premier’s Reading Challenge has kicked off today, marking 21 years of encouraging a love of reading throughout schools in our local area.

The Challenge, which first started in 2002, has grown in both student participation and completion numbers every year since its inception.

Premier, Dominic Perrottet said, despite disruptions from COVID-19 in 2021, participation in the Challenge was up almost 3 per cent (440,000 students) with individual books read reaching almost 9 million.

“It’s wonderful to see that the Challenge continues to grow, encouraging generations to enjoy reading,” Premier Perrottet said.

Member for Oatley, Mark Coure said, that the Premier’s Reading Challenge is a world-class initiative and something that countless local school children participate in every year.

“It has allowed children within our local area to enjoy quality literature for over 20 years, encouraging school kids to get involved in reading beyond the classroom.” Mr Coure said.

“Despite the interruptions our community has experienced over the past two years, this is a great program that school kids can get involved in to kick off the 2022 school year.”

Minister for Education and Early Learning, Sarah Mitchell said, this year’s motto “stories that stay with you” was very suitable following the past two years we have had.

“Reading is so beneficial for students’ lives, it sharpens their knowledge and strengthens writing and vocabulary – but just as importantly it makes for happier, more creative kids who take that with them into adulthood,” Minister Mitchell said.

“Reading is a gift that unlocks future success for students. I’m excited for this year’s challenge to start.”

The Premier’s Reading Challenge begins on Monday, 28 February and is open for student entries until Friday, 19 August. Students from government, independent, Catholic and home schools in Kindergarten to Year 10 can participate.

Please see www.premiersreadingchallenge.nsw.edu.au for the rules of the competition.