Turning the Pages

We are delighted to launch Turning the Pages, a new regular feature celebrating the joy of reading across our school. In this series, members of our teaching team will share the books they love, what they are enjoying reading right now, and the stories they would recommend to children and families. By opening up conversations about books, we hope to inspire curiosity, spark new reading choices and show that a love of reading is something we all share — at every age and every stage.

First up—Mrs Langford

We begin the series with our Headteacher, Mrs Langford, an avid reader whose love of books is as infectious as her enthusiasm for learning.

1. What book are you enjoying reading at the moment?

When the Cranes Fly South - set in the north of Sweden, it is the story of an elderly man, Bo, living on his own with his dog, whose days are punctured by visits from his care team and son. He has lost his wife to advanced dementia who now lives in a residential home. Bo is desperately trying to continue to live his life in his own way and preserve his autonomy. It is a very emotional and moving read.

2. If you could step inside any book for a day, which one would you choose?

As a child, I was addicted to the Magic Faraway Tree series by Enid Blyton which totally captivated my imagination, so it would be wonderful to experience that fantasy world. Otherwise, it would have to be Jane Eyre or Pride and Prejudice to experience life in those wonderful old houses and stately homes.

3. What is one book you would love every child to read — and why?

That's too difficult as there are far too many to choose from! Charlotte's Web is a timeless classic and a beautiful story of friendship and love for younger readers to enjoy. For the older age group, The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas is a clever book that portrays a dark time in history for children and shows how friendship can overcome hatred and prejudice. It is a powerful reminder of the human cost of hatred and the consequences of ignorance.