In celebration of World Book Day, UCS College Group is launching a new cross-college reading initiative as part of the National Year of Reading 2026, a nationwide campaign led by the Department for Education and the National Literacy Trust to inspire a renewed love of reading across the UK.
At the heart of the Group’s campaign is a simple message: ‘Take Twenty to Read’.
Students and staff are encouraged to commit to 20 minutes of reading a day, ideally at least four times per week, fitting it into their schedules in a way that works for them. Research shows that even this small daily habit can significantly improve vocabulary, focus, critical thinking and academic performance, while also reducing stress and supporting overall wellbeing.
Reading regularly not only strengthens written and verbal communication skills, but also builds confidence, empathy and cultural awareness, key attributes for success in education, employment and everyday life.
The initiative is built around the theme: READ — Relax, Explore, Achieve, Discover.
- Relax: Take twenty minutes to pause and reset. Reading can reduce stress, improve focus and create a sense of calm in a busy day.
- Explore: Broaden your knowledge and perspectives by discovering new subjects, ideas and voices beyond the classroom.
- Achieve: Build the skills that support academic success, from stronger vocabulary to sharper critical thinking.
- Discover: Find new interests, ambitions and possibilities that inspire confidence and future goals.
Across all colleges, UCS College Group promotes reading for pleasure as well as study, fostering a culture where reading is accessible and encouraged.
Importantly, the initiative focuses on choice. Staff and students can read books, articles, journals or listen to audiobooks that reflect their interests, helping to make reading a positive and personal experience rather than a requirement.
Taking just twenty minutes to read each day can have a lasting impact. Through this initiative, we are supporting our staff and students to develop strong academic skills while also nurturing wellbeing, confidence and curiosity.
Jolanta Peters
Research and Library Services Manager
Through its support of the National Year of Reading 2026, UCS College Group reaffirms its commitment to developing skilled, thoughtful and future-ready learners.
For more information about courses across UCS College Group, please visit ucscollegegroup.ac.uk or contact Information and Advice on 01278 441234.