Books, Blessings and Big Hearts: Our Week of Reading and Prayer in Reception

World Book Day 2026 was a wonderfully cosy celebration of stories, imagination, and togetherness. We arrived at school in our pyjamas, which made the whole day feel extra special, like we were stepping straight into a bedtime story. Our grown‑ups joined us in the morning and shared some of our favourite books. Listening to them read made the room feel warm and full of excitement, and it was lovely to see everyone enjoying stories together.

One of the highlights of the day was when we buddied up with Year 3, and they read stories to us. It was fun to spend time with older children, some siblings too, and we loved hearing the books they chose to share.

Throughout the day, we talked about our favourite stories, the characters we love, and why reading is so important. To finish off our celebrations, we made our own bookmarks. Everyone designed something unique, they were very creative- colourful, and some were inspired by our favourite books.

It was a fantastic day filled with creativity, comfort, and the joy of reading.

Today, we marked World Day of Prayer with a thoughtful and creative activity. The children carefully cut out and decorated colourful prayer hands, each one becoming a personal reminder of kindness and compassion. As a group, the children shared who they would like to pray for — family, friends, people in need, and those who help our community every day. We talked together about why prayer matters, how it helps us pause, reflect, and show care for others. It was a gentle, meaningful moment that encouraged empathy and reminded us all of the power of taking time to think of others.

Books, Blessings and Big Hearts: Our Week of Reading and Prayer

All Saints Catholic Academy Trust (ASCAT)

Formed in 2016, as part of the Diocese of Westminster's Academy Strategy, we provide a collaborative structure of school support and innovation for Catholic schools in South West Hertfordshire. Our vision of an 'Outstanding Education for All' comes from this desire to enable all members of school communities to flourish and succeed and to do all that we can to make our schools places where ambition for all is at the heart of everything that we do.

Visit Site