Belmont Academy achieves Reading School accreditation

This is an archived article from 22 February 2023. 

Belmont Academy was recently awarded the Reading School accreditation by the Scottish Book Trust.

Pupils got involved in a selection of fun reading exercises to achieve the prestigious accolade. These were organised by the Reading Leadership Group - a team consisting of Belmont Academy staff Mr Willetts, Miss Grant, and Mr Pringle, alongside a group of S1-S6 pupils.

S1-S3 pupils took part in a Health and Wellbeing Book Research Challenge, while S2-S6 pupils enjoyed listening to audiobooks. The whole school took part in a Drop Everything and Read event during Book Week Scotland, and a collection of book reviews were compiled from pupils of all stages.

Pupils also engaged in a "speed dating" exercise where they got the chance to check out a range of books to see which appealed to them. Other reading activities included the Heartstopper Challenge and the Reading World Cup.

Kevin Boyd, Head Teacher at Belmont Academy said: "We're delighted to have been recognised by the Scottish Book Trust as a Reading School! It's through the hard work and enthusiasm of our staff and pupils that we've been able to achieve his amazing accreditation."

Councillor Stephen Ferry, Education Portfolio Holder for South Ayrshire Council said: "It's fantastic to see Belmont Academy being recognised for all their hard work. Setting fun challenges not only helps develop reading skills amongst young people but inspires a generation of enthusiastic readers. Congratulations to all of the pupils and staff involved!"