Chrissie Sains is the author of The Alien in the Jam Factory and The Treasure Under the Jam Factory. Chrissie now writes full time and is a graduate of the Golden Egg Academy and a member of SCBWI. Read on for Chrissie’s favourite books.

Eve Morton, one of our fabulous Teachers’ Reading Group leaders, has worked as a primary teacher for 18 years and is currently a literacy adviser. One of her favourite parts of the role is sharing her passion for children’s books and encouraging teachers to become readers themselves. Check out Eve’s selection of Top Texts.

The Reading Schools Programme aims to do more of what works. RfP leaders are implementing their actions at pace and gathering evidence about what difference they make to children as readers. We are looking forward to hearing their reflections in celebration events planned for June.

Despite spring being the most hectic term ever, Session 4 was very good. Great poetry books and non-fiction books suggestions shared from all, whilst RfP pedagogy, social reading environments and Jon Biddle’s video created much discussion. As the leader, I remain impressed and motivated by the enthusiasm and talent this group shows and their determination to impact on young readers.

Our group is composed of ITT students this year, all keen to build their knowledge of children’s literature and to hone their practice. We have done plenty of book sharing and there are some interesting RfP projects coming along. This time, ‘The Sunflower Sisters’ by Monika Singh Gangotra was a real favourite and sparked some great discussions about inclusion as well as reading.

This blog, by UKLA President Roger Macdonald, is the third in a series arising from the OU Student Teachers as Readers (STaRs) pilot research into their experiences and identities as readers and their views about supporting children as readers. It reveals cause for concern and the need for support and knowledge expansion in Initial Teacher Education.