Date: Thursday 11 July

Time: Refreshments at 4pm in Ron Bourne Hall, for 4.30pm Litchat in Pansy Wood Center – until 6pm

Venue: Whitsunday Anglican School - Ron Bourne Hall from 4pm, Pansy Wood Center from 4.30pm

Tickets: Bookings are essential. Tickets $40, includes refreshments

Presented by Belinda Murrell

The Power of Reading for Pleasure

Research shows that reading for pleasure is the single most important factor in a child’s future success both academically and beyond into adulthood. Reading for pleasure makes kids smarter, more empathetic, improves mental health and encourages academic success.

Recent Grattan Institute studies show one-third of Australian students can’t read at their grade level. For children from regional areas, disadvantaged families, and indigenous students, this rises to nearly 50% of students.

How can we inspire kids to read, not just to learn, but for pleasure? How can we encourage kids to develop a joyous love of reading?

Over the last 18 years Belinda has visited schools all over Australia, speaking to thousands of children every year, as well as working with teachers, librarians and educators to implement literacy programs. Belinda is an ambassador for children’s literacy charities including Books In Homes and Room To Read, and a member of the CBCA (Children’s Book Council of Australia).

Belinda Murrell is an award winning, internationally published author of more than 35 books for children. Belinda shares her insight into writing books for young readers with heart, hope and humour.

This dynamic session will provide tips, tools and tricks to help encourage children to enjoy reading for pleasure.

Earn Professional Development points (Certificates will be issued)

A special thanks to the Australian Literacy Educators’ Association for their support of this event.