Research shows that your interest and involvement in your child’s learning and education is more important than anything else in helping your child to fulfil their potential. As parents/carers you are there from day one on their learning journey. Research into the reading skills of 15 year-olds across the world found that children who are more interested in reading do better at school than those who do not read for pleasure. Studies also found that parents/carers who talk to their children about books, TV programmes and films help to keep their children interested in reading. Having books, newspapers and magazines around at home also made a difference to how interested children were in reading.
Once your child has found a book they love it can sometimes be difficult for them to find something else, but don’t worry the Book Trust and good reads have some top tips on how to support your child finding another literary experience to enjoy just as much.
Useful website
Offers practical resources, book lists, guidance, and research to support secondary literacy in schools and at home.
Good starting point to see age-appropriate strategies and what schools are doing
Focuses on media and digital literacy for students aged ~11–16. Their secondary resources help parents, guardians, and teachers examine how media influences reading, advertising, digital communication.
Use their resources to have conversations with your child about digital media, critical reading of web content, and credible sources
The Blackburn with Darwen Library Service offers a fantastic online platform where parents and secondary school students can explore a wide range of reading and learning opportunities. Through the Blackburn Library website, families can access free eBooks, audiobooks, magazines, and study resources—all designed to support independent reading and academic success. The site also provides information about library memberships, reading challenges, homework help, and local events that promote literacy and a love of books. Encouraging students to use the library’s online and in-person services helps them build lifelong reading habits and gain access to a diverse collection of age-appropriate materials that extend learning beyond the classroom.
BBC Newsround is an excellent online resource for secondary school students and parents, offering reliable, age-appropriate news and current affairs. The website provides short, engaging articles and videos that help young people understand what’s happening in the world in a safe and accessible way. Covering topics such as world events, science, entertainment, and wellbeing, Newsround encourages students to think critically, form their own opinions, and stay informed. Parents can also use the site to support discussions at home about global issues, helping children develop media awareness, empathy, and an interest in the wider world.
Helps students understand what they read by providing simpler, pupil-friendly definitions and interactive quizzes to build comprehension.
A website that helps readers discover new books based on their personal interests and favourite reads. Using a unique recommendation system, it suggests titles that other readers with similar tastes have enjoyed. The site analyses thousands of book lists to create accurate, community-driven suggestions, making it a great tool for students and parents looking to explore new authors and genres.
We regularly host parent workshops focused on supporting literacy at home. Keep an eye out for messages from the school about upcoming sessions—these are great opportunities to join us, learn practical strategies, and ask any questions you may have.