'As a Librarian, it was exciting to show children in the school in Elblag what our favourite books are. I can't wait to find out if there are any similarities.' Emmie Y6

'I think this was a wonderful gift. If they put it in their school Library or pass it to each class then we will be able share every person's recommendation with everyone in School 12.' Archie Y5

'I hope they like their new books!' Layton Y1

'Everyone got a chance to vote and my favourite book, Dave the pigeon, got chosen!' Hallie Y4

'Sharing this project with the partner school was such a privilege!' Mrs Morris

During Term 2, children across St Thomas CE Primary Academy took part in a whole school project focused on sharing stories and promoting cultural connection through reading. The Librarians - who led us in this international activity supported each class to select their favourite book to recommend to our partner school. Pupils voted for their top titles, demonstrating their understanding of British Values such as democracy, respect, and tolerance. Staff in the staffroom also contributed their own favourites, and class reading leaders collected all entries.

These were compiled into a whole-school recommendation book, designed collaboratively by pupils across year groups. Our Language Ambassadors—pupils who speak multiple languages, including Polish—translated parts of the book to ensure accessibility and inclusivity for our partner school. This supported their development in language, a love of reading, leadership, and intercultural understanding, while also reinforcing the importance of representation and global friendship.

To make the exchange more meaningful, pupils used money they had raised through a school book fair to purchase several of the recommended titles. These books were hand-delivered to School 12 in Elbląg during a visit in November 2024 by Mrs Morris and Miss Sharples. During the visit, both staff members read some of the gifted books aloud to the Polish pupils, fostering a shared experience of storytelling, language, and connection

SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 17

417 children involved in this activity