Devan Pigeon, age 11, from Sunnyside Spencer Academy, has won the national award ‘Most Effort on Reading Plus (KS2)’ for his progress and positive change in attitude towards reading.
The whole school also celebrated after being shortlisted for the ‘Reading Plus School of the Year (KS2)’ award.
The Reading Plus Awards is an annual event organised by Reading Solutions UK, home of the online reading development programme, Reading Plus, to recognise and celebrate the achievements of pupils, teachers, and schools across the country.
Assistant headteacher Verity Lee said: “We entered Devan for the Most Effort on Reading Plus award due to his remarkable transformation in his attitude towards reading. He has shown a proactive approach to improving his skills by seeking out an adult each morning to read and discuss texts. Devan’s enthusiasm was contagious, as he actively encouraged his peers to strive for excellence and achieve their reading goals.”
This is the second year Sunnyside Spencer Academy has won this award. Last year Louis Gashi, aged 11, celebrated the same success.
Verity continues: “We are pleased to have been an award winner for the second year. Reading Plus has contributed to the improved fluency, stamina, and comprehension skills of our pupils.”
Devan received a trophy, a certificate, and a £25 Amazon voucher in recognition. He tells us: “I did not know I was being nominated, but I did know I had made good progress. I like keeping count of how many words I have read and sharing my certificates at home and school.”
Regarding the school’s award, Verity finished: “It is a tremendous honour to be acknowledged for our efforts in creating an environment where reading is not only encouraged but celebrated. It is a testament to the collective dedication of our entire school community and serves as a reminder of the positive impact we are making in our pupils’ lives – empowering them with the invaluable gift of literacy. I feel proud to have been recognised.”
Jonny Bennett, Sales Director at Reading Solutions UK, said: “Devan has achieved remarkable progress and developed a newfound love of reading thanks to his determination and the reading for pleasure culture fostered by the teachers at Sunnyside Spencer Academy.
“It is fantastic that the whole school has also been recognised for their reading achievements. The Reading Plus Awards is an excellent opportunity to showcase impressive accomplishments like these.”