Technology As A Bridge: Ideas To Help You Celebrate The National Year Of Reading
Author – Beverly Clarke MBE
Education Consultant and Author
2026 marks the National Year of Reading – a nationwide call to help every child “Go All In” and build a joyful, consistent reading habit. With reading enjoyment at its lowest point in two decades, many schools are seeking simple, realistic ways to help students reconnect with stories.
As an education consultant at IT Services for Education company – Eduthing, I have seen how technology can play a small but powerful role in this journey. Not as a replacement for books, and not as another initiative for teachers to juggle, but as a bridge, something that helps pupils access texts more easily, makes reading feel relevant to their interests and creates small moments of success for even the most reluctant readers.
To support schools throughout the National Year of Reading, Eduthing are offering a fully funded series of virtual sessions, led by Sarah Robinson, an EdTech Specialist, former primary teacher of almost a decade and an experienced English Lead.
Each webinar focuses on practical, low-pressure approaches that strengthen reading culture, whether by boosting motivation, widening access, supporting SEND learners or helping families build positive reading habits at home.
I will also be guesting on some webinars and showcasing a variety of “tech-themed books” that help learners explore technology in a fun way.
The programme is centred around three simple principles:
ACCESS – widening availability of texts and removing barriers for learners who need extra support.
ENGAGE – connecting reading to pupils’ interests and making it enjoyable, social and relevant.
CONNECT – building communities of readers through shared digital spaces and creative responses.
From creative storytelling tools to built-in accessibility features, the focus is on helping schools make reading visible, modern and achievable without adding workload or complexity. Across the webinar series, there will be sessions for teachers and parents.
If your school is looking for fresh ideas, realistic strategies and a supportive space to rethink reading practice, I’d love you to join us.
Explore the Full Programme Booklet
Register your interest in particular sessions: National Year of Reading Form
