Running a Book Club: Encouraging Pupil Participation

Once you have decided on the purpose of your book club, the logistics and funding you now need to think about how to encourage pupils to join, Here are some of our tips for encouraging pupils to join and attend. 

Depending on the age of your pupils, you might want to consider giving your book club a name, or launching it in assembly. One primary school teacher sent out invitations to pupils which included the promise of cake. As she had selected the text, she also wrapped the books so the pupils had the excitement of opening the parcel. 

Make it fun

Include games, and engaging activities related to the books being read. Consider occasionally including snacks and watching the films based on the books you have finished reading (provided they are age appropriate.) 

Take part in virtual author visits

A number of authors hold virtual author visits. These are sometimes through places like the BookTrust or are advertised on social media. This is a really great opportunity for pupils to find out more about authors, their inspiration and their next books. 

Involve pupils in book choices

Some schools involve pupils in choosing books for the book club. It might be from a selection of titles and genres. It might be that you hide the cover and the author but instead read out the blurb. Some schools watch book trailers too. 

Remember that it doesn’t have to be books that you read but could instead be magazines, graphic novels etc. 

Final Thoughts

It will take time to find out what works with your pupils. Remember that different pupils will have different interests and books that they like. So, the most important thing is to adapt and persevere.

If you're not yet at this stage, take a look at our article about things to consider before starting a book club.