Premier Campbell Newman has congratulated 82,000 Queensland primary school students for completing the Premier’s Reading Challenge.
Mr Newman said more than 600 state and non-state schools would be celebrating the achievements of young readers over the next fortnight.
“Congratulations to every student from Prep to Year 7 who stepped up to the challenge of reading or experiencing more than 15 to 20 books between 22 May and 7 September,” Mr Newman said.
“In the 7th year of the Reading Challenge, I am delighted to announce that yet another record has been broken, with the final tally tipping 1.6 million books read.
“This is a marvellous achievement for so many enthusiastic young readers, who I hope will continue to enjoy more books and set their own reading targets.”
Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett said every student who completed the Premier’s Reading Challenge would receive a certificate signed by the Premier.
“A certificate from the Premier is a great incentive for students to complete the challenge, but the real reward is improved literacy and a greater love of reading,” Mr Bennett said. “I will personally present a number of certificates to students at Burnett Schools over the coming weeks, on behalf of the Premier”.
“Reading allows children to explore their inner selves and their relationship with the world, as well as laying the necessary foundations for learning.
“That is why the Newman Government is investing $26 million over the next four years through the Getting the Basics Right – Literacy and Numeracy grants.
“These grants will enable school communities to tailor literacy and numeracy programs to the individual needs of their students.”
Mr Bennett said many schools would coordinate their Premier’s Reading Challenge celebrations with activities for the National Year of Reading.
“This year is also the National Year of Reading and a great opportunity for people of all ages to discover – or rediscover – the enjoyment of reading,” he said.