At Underwood, classes pair-up and work together as Reading Buddies.  At the beginning of each academic year, children are partnered with a child from a different class and these children remain 'Buddies' for the whole academic year.  

Each half term, we get together for an afternoon to celebrate books and our passion for reading at Underwood.  We read books together, discuss their content and the bits we found the most fun, exciting or insightful together.   During these sessions, the older of the two children will listen to their younger buddy read aloud, a very special part of our time together that offers support and guidance on their reading journeys.

Why do we have Reading Buddies at Underwood? 

• To nurture the love of reading for children.
• To provide a safe space for children to explore the world of literature.
• To teach empathy and the skills of supporting others.
• To encourage reading for pleasure.
• To make new friends.   

What do the children think?

'I enjoy time with my buddy and them reading me stories.' - Erin Y2

'You get to read lots of different books and spend time with someone in a different class.' - Isaac Y5

'Reading Buddies is fun and we get to know more people in school.' - Laila Y6

'I love sharing new books!'- Mila Y2

'It is good to spend time reading with the children in Year 2.'- Kai Y5