Premier’s Reading Challenge

What is the NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge?

The joy of reading

Why it matters and how a reading challenge can help

Reading is one of the most important skills a child can develop, but beyond just learning to read, developing a love for reading is key to lifelong learning and success. For primary school-aged children, enjoying reading boosts their confidence, expands their vocabulary, strengthens comprehension skills, and sparks creativity. Children who love reading are more likely to read independently, which enhances their overall academic performance and fosters a lifelong habit of learning.

However, not all children naturally develop a love for books. This is where a reading challenge can make a big difference. A reading challenge creates a fun and engaging way for children to explore different books, set personal reading goals, and celebrate their achievements. These challenges often include rewards, friendly competition, and shared experiences with classmates, all of which make reading exciting and enjoyable.

By participating in a reading challenge, children discover new genres, authors, and stories that might ignite their passion for books. Most importantly, it helps them associate reading with enjoyment rather than just schoolwork, laying the foundation for a lifelong love of literature.

Encouraging your child to take part in a reading challenge is a great way to nurture their enthusiasm for books and set them on the path to becoming confident, curious, and engaged readers. Happy reading!

How many books do students need to read?

K-2

Students in Kindergarten to Year 2 are challenged to read, or experience, 30 books. These books will be read in library or class lessons and the reading log will be created and entered at school. Parents do not need to create the reading log.

3-6

Students in Year 3 to Year 6 are challenged to read 20 books independently. At least 10 of these books must be from the relevant Challenge booklists, and up to 10 books can be personal choice books. Students will learn how to create their online reading log during library lessons. They will be given time to add books during library but might need to complete the list independently.

If a book is from an approved PRC series, students can enter up to 5 books as Challenge books, and can read up to 10 other books from the same series as Personal Choice books. More information on the rules of the Challenge can be found on the PRC website.

Books must be added to a student’s online reading record by Friday 22 August 2025 in order for their reading record to be validated and receive a certificate.

How do students log their reading?

Students can access the PRC’s Student Experience site using their Department of Education username and password, or can log into the site via the Student Portal.

Ms J Metzner
Teacher Librarian
PRC Coordinator at Stanmore Public School