RENREW High School welcomed Nicola Sturgeon this week for the launch of the third First Minister’s Reading Challenge. 

The challenge encourages pupils to read outside of school for pleasure and asks children to record their progress with prizes up for grabs.

And this year the challenge will now include all secondary schools in Scotland after a successful pilot last year which included Renfrew. 

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Speaking at the event, Ms Sturgeon said: “Reading not only opens up a whole new world of adventure, but also helps develop and improve children’s literacy.

“The evaluation of the programme showed it has been well received by pupils, schools and parents in primary schools. 

“It is important we build on that enthusiasm and encourage young people to continue reading as they progress through their education into secondary school.”

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Billy Burke, headteacher of Renfrew High, said: “We were delighted to participate in the secondary pilot of the First Minister’s Reading Challenge. It is fantastic to see our pupils leading in this area of their learning.”

To get involved, visit rheadingchallenge.scot/register.