Exeter schools celebrate World Book Day with costumes, authors and reading events

Pupils across Exeter stepped into the world of books this week as schools marked World Book Day (Thursday 5 March) with author visits, costume celebrations and creative reading activities.

Schools across the city organised a range of events designed to encourage children to discover new stories and develop a lifelong love of reading.

At West Exe School, pupils welcomed bestselling young adult author Madeline Dyer for a day of writing workshops, assemblies and a book signing.

The Lambda Literary Award finalist spoke to students about her experiences as a writer and shared insights into the creative process behind her novels, which explore themes including identity and loneliness.

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The visit gave pupils the chance to ask questions about storytelling and gain first-hand insight into what it takes to become a published author.

Meanwhile, pupils and staff at Whipton Barton Federation celebrated by dressing up as their favourite book characters, transforming the school into a colourful showcase of literary heroes and villains.

Activities throughout the day included book treasure hunts and interactive reading challenges designed to bring stories to life.

At St Luke’s CofE School, pupils took part in a variety of literary competitions and activities, including a World Book Day quiz and a book swap where children could exchange stories with friends.

Students also entered national competitions such as the National Book Token Design Competition and the Young Writers Poetry Competition, encouraging them to engage creatively with literature beyond the classroom.

All pupils received £1 World Book Day tokens, which can be redeemed for specially selected books, helping them explore new authors and titles.

Reading is a central part of school life at all four schools, which are part of the Ted Wragg Trust. Pupils take part in daily reading sessions, guided lessons and read-aloud activities, with classrooms and libraries designed to provide easy access to books.

These initiatives aim to help children build reading fluency and comprehension while fostering an enjoyment of literature.

Moira Marder, chief executive of the Ted Wragg Trust, said the celebrations highlighted how important reading is across the trust’s schools.

“World Book Day is always a memorable occasion across our schools,” she said.

“It’s been wonderful to see all the exciting activities taking place. From author visits to quizzes and creative challenges, it’s clear that pupils are enjoying reading and being inspired to explore new stories.”

Schools beyond the city also joined the celebrations, including Dunsford CofE Academy in the Teign Valley.

Pupils there dressed up as their favourite book characters and shared stories throughout the day, while a book swap gave children the opportunity to discover new authors.

The celebrations reflected this year’s World Book Day theme, “Go All In”, which encourages children to explore their interests and passions through reading.

All pupils at Dunsford also received £1 book tokens to help them discover new stories and authors.

Reading plays a central role in school life at the academy, with daily phonics lessons, whole-class reading sessions and read-aloud activities forming part of the curriculum.

Headteacher Liam O’Sullivan said the day was an opportunity to celebrate books and encourage children to enjoy reading together.

“World Book Day was a wonderful occasion at Dunsford,” he said.

“It was brilliant to see our pupils dressed up, sharing stories and discovering new books together. Events like this really show how reading can be fun, inspiring and something to enjoy every day.”

Tracey Cleverly, chief executive of the Learning Academy Partnership, said activities like World Book Day help nurture a long-term passion for reading.

“When children see stories come alive and share their favourite books with friends, it helps build a passion for reading that will stay with them for years to come,” she said.

World Book Day takes place annually to celebrate reading for pleasure and encourage children to explore books beyond the classroom.

This year’s celebrations are also linked with the UK’s National Year of Reading 2026 initiative, which aims to inspire more children and families to discover the joy of books.

Across Exeter and beyond, schools used the occasion to remind pupils that reading can open the door to imagination, creativity and new ideas.