Reading is one of the most powerful tools for learning. It opens up new worlds, sharpens the imagination, and equips children with the knowledge and language skills they need to succeed. At Verbum Dei Academy, we place great emphasis on cultivating a love for reading from the earliest years. We believe that reading is not just a subject to be taught but a lifelong habit to be nurtured.
In this post, we will explore how Verbum Dei Academy fosters strong reading habits among its pupils, how Verbum Dei International College builds upon this foundation, and why developing a love for books is essential in today’s fast-paced digital world.
Why Reading Matters
Reading goes beyond the simple act of decoding letters and words. It builds vocabulary, strengthens comprehension, enhances concentration, and fuels creativity. Children who read regularly are better equipped to excel in all subjects, from mathematics to science, because reading improves their ability to understand instructions, analyze problems, and retain information.
At Verbum Dei Academy, we see reading as the foundation of learning. By instilling reading habits early, we prepare pupils for academic excellence and a lifetime of self-discovery.
How Verbum Dei Academy Promotes Reading
- A Rich Classroom Library
Every classroom at Verbum Dei Academy is stocked with age-appropriate books ranging from colorful picture books to early chapter books. These libraries encourage children to explore stories independently, sparking curiosity and imagination. - Dedicated Reading Hours
Pupils participate in scheduled reading sessions where they either read individually or engage in group story time. These moments create a calm atmosphere where reading is celebrated as a joyful activity. - Storytelling Sessions
Teachers and invited guests often read aloud to pupils, using expressive voices and interactive discussions to make stories come alive. These sessions not only enhance comprehension but also make reading exciting and fun. - Reading Challenges and Competitions
To inspire enthusiasm, the school organizes reading challenges where pupils are encouraged to read a set number of books within a given time. Prizes and recognition at assemblies motivate children to push themselves further. - Parental Involvement
Parents are encouraged to create reading-friendly environments at home. The school regularly shares tips with parents on reading aloud, choosing books, and encouraging conversations around stories.
From Reading to Writing
At Verbum Dei Academy, we also emphasize the connection between reading and writing. As pupils read widely, they develop stronger writing skills, better sentence structure, and creative expression. Many of our pupils go on to write their own short stories, poems, and essays, showcasing the impact of their reading experiences.
Transitioning to Verbum Dei International College
By the time pupils move on to Verbum Dei International College, their reading habits have already been well-established. At the secondary school level, these habits are refined further through more advanced literature, academic texts, and research-based learning. Students are introduced to African and international authors, drama, poetry, and critical literary analysis.
This progression ensures that reading is not only for leisure but also a key academic tool for excelling in English Language, Literature, and other subjects that require comprehension and critical thinking.
Reading in the Digital Age
While technology has transformed how children consume information, Verbum Dei Academy balances screen time with book reading. Pupils are introduced to digital libraries and age-appropriate e-books, teaching them how to use technology for reading without losing the joy of traditional print books.
This blended approach ensures pupils are prepared for a world where both digital literacy and traditional reading skills are valuable.
Success Stories: Readers Who Became Leaders
Many of our alumni trace their academic and professional success to the strong reading culture nurtured at Verbum Dei. From excelling in national debates to achieving top scores in English exams, these students stand as living proof of how reading lays the groundwork for excellence.
Conclusion
At Verbum Dei Academy, reading is more than an academic requirement—it is a culture. By making books accessible, exciting, and integral to daily learning, we foster not just strong readers but confident learners ready to take on the world.
When pupils advance to Verbum Dei International College, they carry with them this invaluable skill, allowing them to excel in complex studies, express themselves with clarity, and engage with ideas critically.
In a world that is constantly changing, one thing remains timeless: readers will always be leaders. At Verbum Dei, we are committed to raising both.
