On World book day, Thursday 8th March, Croydon High got all dressed up as their favourite character in memory of our late librarian Mrs Karen Abrams. The day raised £1260.70 for Positive Action in Housing, a charity that was close to Mrs Abrams' heart. 

 

Mrs Abrams was passionate about human rights and led the Amnesty International group in the senior school. She also had a love of reading that she spread to others, Mrs Abrams also ran many book clubs for students.

 

 Positive action in Housing is an independent homelessness and human rights charity. 

 

Mrs Abrams and her husband Len volunteered and supported Positive action in Housing since 2015. They were ambassadors for the Room for the Refugees programme. 

 

Over the course of the day many fun activities took place. Activities like the annual World Book Day quiz and a readathon. In the readathon teachers took it in turns to read to students and members of staff passing through the hall; who were invited to sit and listen.

 

Students and staff also enjoyed a 'Drop it and Read' where students and staff stopped whatever they were doing and read for 15 minutes. It acted as a calming way to break up the day.  To encourage students and staff to take time for themselves in the day. 

 

There were some excellent costumes including a very scary Miss Trunchbull, an ensemble of oompa loompas, a very hungry caterpillar and a host of  Little Miss characters.

 

Students and staff were invited to have their photo taken in the library of their costumes. There was also a staff photo and pictures were taken of year groups also featuring 'best dressed' photos. Students were also invited to vote for their favourite teacher's costume. 

 

The day was a brilliant way to celebrate a shared love of reading and to remember Mrs Karen Abrams. 

 

But why is it so important to read?

Many students will have been told by their English teacher to read everyday. Reading is known to allow you to be able to experience another world of different cultures, experiences and traditions.

 

Beyza Cummins a student said, "I think reading is important as it opens your mind to new cultures and ideas and lets you experience things you wouldn't have the chance to in your everyday life".

 

Although World Book Day has since passed, it's important to read all year round, and spread a love of reading to those around you. To encourage greater understanding of different cultures and the people around you.