A WILTSHIRE College & University Centre student has won a regional prize in this year’s South West Reading Challenge, with ESOL student Moni Akter receiving a £50 Amazon gift card after completing the Silver level.
More than 100 students from the College took part in the challenge, which encourages students to discover the enjoyment of reading for pleasure. Organised by South Devon College, the South West Reading Challenge is open to further education colleges across the region.
Students can complete Bronze, Silver or Gold levels by reading and reviewing books, with each level entered into prize draws for rewards including Amazon vouchers and iPads.
Jen Tegg, Learning Resources Manager at Wiltshire College & University Centre, said: “Over 100 students signed up for the challenge. They loved the badges and certificates and, of course, the opportunity to win a prize. It started lots of conversations with our Learning Resources Centre staff about what students like to read, and everyone said they really enjoyed taking part. One student had never really used the library before and told us they love it now.”
The College took part in the challenge as part of its support for the National Year of Reading, encouraging students to read beyond their course materials and discover books that match their interests.
Jen said: “Reading for pleasure has so many benefits. It improves literacy skills, widens knowledge outside of a course and you can always find a book that connects with you and your interests. It is also proven to help with academic skills, including knowledge retention and writing. Our Learning Resources Centre staff are always on hand to recommend books.”
Graphic novels, fantasy fiction and autobiographies proved particularly popular with students taking part in this year’s challenge.
Reading activities continue throughout the year across the College’s Learning Resources Centres, including a library loyalty card scheme, Instagram competitions and free book giveaways during events. The College will also take part in next year’s South West Reading Challenge.
Jen added: “If you think you don’t enjoy reading, you probably just haven’t found the right book yet. And if you prefer reading on a screen, we have a fantastic selection of eBooks that you can even read on your phone.”
Students looking for their next read or wanting to find out more about future reading challenges are encouraged to visit their campus Learning Resources Centre, where staff are always happy to help.
