Research explains that as children get older, they read less and, as a result, have poorer attitudes to reading (Clark and Osborne 2008; Topping, 2010; Clark and Douglas, 2011). This poor attitude is especially pertinent to the context of Langston High (pseudonym) as its current Ofsted report outlined that most of the students who come from low socio-economic backgrounds are poor readers.

This research sought to explore the impact of curated fiction excerpts on disadvantaged students to improve their attitude towards reading for pleasure. Research also clarifies that teachers are essential in improving students' attitudes to reading (Cremin et al., 2008). As a result, this research project also explored ways of supporting teachers to enhance their knowledge of children’s literature and their reading habits through CPD facilitated by the Open University.

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