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Free summer reading starts on Thursday 9th July 2026.

 

What is Summer Reading?


The First News Summer Reading Scheme is a free initiative for all pupils of subscribing schools. It gives them full digital access to our award-winning children’s newspaper, games and puzzles via the First News app throughout the summer holidays. The scheme helps children stay curious, informed and reading while school is out – supporting families and helping schools reduce summer reading loss with trusted, age-appropriate news and engaging activities.

Why does it make a difference?

Reading can drop off significantly during the summer holidays – particularly for children without easy access to books.

  • 1 in 10 children say they have no book at home*

  • Just 1 in 3 (34.6%) children and young people aged 8 to 18 said that they enjoyed reading in their free time in 2024. Reading enjoyment levels have decreased by 8.8 percentage points over the past year alone**

  • In a poll of over 5,000 First News readers, 71% told us they enjoy reading for pleasure.

That’s why we’re proud to support schools and families by providing free, trusted news and engaging content all summer.

What’s included?

Every pupil will receive an 8 week full digital subscription to First News, the UK’s award-winning children’s newspaper from 9 July to 4 September 2026:

  • Weekly 28-page digital newspaper

  • Daily news stories available to read or listen to

  • Weekly news quizzes

  • Puzzles and word games (Wordie, Crosswords, Sudoku, and more)

  • Interactive polls and competitions

  • Full searchable access to the First News archive

How can I get involved?

First News subscribing schools will receive an email or can opt-in via the My Account area. You will then receive a unique shareable link for parents to sign up. If you don’t receive any emails or have any questions, please contact us at [email protected].

Information for parents and guardians

If your child’s school has joined the Summer Reading Scheme, you’ll receive access details through the school’s newsletter or parent communication platform, inviting you to sign up. After registering, you’ll receive your unique Web ID, which you can use to sign in to the 'First News Newspaper' app and enjoy free content all summer!