Recognised as Unley Council’s Community Event of the Year and the winner of the Catholic Education South Australia (CESA) Innovative Programme Award, the Reading Revolution is all about bringing families and communities together to rediscover the joy of reading.
A revolution worth joining
With screen time now a regular part of many children’s lives, the Reading Revolution offers something refreshingly different—the timeless magic of books.
Principal Emma Fowler says the initiative is more than just a school program—it’s a movement.
“A movement to reclaim reading as the cornerstone of wellbeing and intellectual growth,” she explains.
“Immersing yourself in a book isn’t just an escape; it’s an investment in your mind, your creativity, and your future. We’re here to show families that books are the antidote to screen addiction.”
Throughout the week, students will take part in a school-wide read-a-thon, and on Thursday, 19 June, families are invited to a special Literacy Panel Evening featuring top children’s authors and literacy experts. Parents can attend the panel while children enjoy supervised play and storytime sessions in the school library and playground.
Backed by CESA
Catholic Education South Australia has praised the initiative, saying: “The Reading Revolution program at St Raphael’s School is a shining example of contemporary innovation in Catholic education. This transformative approach to early literacy bridges the gap between early learning and primary education by actively involving families, educators, and local kindergartens in fostering a lifelong love of reading.”
Literacy panel: Supporting every age
The highlight of the week, the Literacy Panel, will be held on Thursday 19 June from 6pm to 7:30pm at St Raphael’s School. It’s a must for parents wanting practical strategies and expert advice on how to nurture reading at home.
Panel speakers include:
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Bec Hughes (Raising Literacy Australia) – for pre-school parents
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Mandy Foot (Author & Illustrator) – for Reception to Year 2
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Andrew Joyner (Author & Illustrator) – for Year 3 to Year 4
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Tania Ingram (Author) – for Year 5 to Year 6
These age-specific breakout sessions will give families real, take-home tools tailored to their child’s stage of learning.
Books vs screens
Books can help children thrive—mentally, emotionally and academically. Research shows reading builds empathy, improves focus, and helps children feel calmer.
“We’re not just teaching our students how to read; we’re teaching them to love reading,” says Principal Emma Fowler.
Event details
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When: 16–20 June 2025
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Literacy Panel: Thursday 19 June | 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
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Where: St Raphael’s School, 114 Glen Osmond Rd, Parkside
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Cost: Free entry
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Child-friendly: Supervised play and storytime activities available during the panel
Register or learn more at raph.catholic.edu.au
