During the Month of the Military Child we sent children at Carnagill School a bundle of books to review. They have been AMAZING at telling us what they thought about the books and we’ve loved hearing their reviews. In this blog, Sarah Bradshaw talks about
Reading Force at Carnagill: Stories That Brought Us Together
During the Month of the Military Child, Carnagill School was incredibly grateful to receive a parcel of books from Reading Force to review—and what a moment it was when it arrived. The excitement of opening the parcel was immediate and infectious. Pupils gathered eagerly as the box was opened, revealing a beautiful selection of books that instantly captured their attention.
Inside were a range of powerful and visually stunning texts, including The Lost Robot, Isla in the Sky, The Worry Jar, The Boy with Flowers in His Hair, Milo and the Mountain, and Welcome to Our Table. From the outset, the children understood that these were special books. They were given responsibility for caring for them, reading them thoughtfully, and sharing honest opinions, which created a real sense of pride and ownership.
Early Moments That Made Us Smile
One particularly heart‑warming moment came from our youngest pupils. A little boy in EYFS promptly picked up The Lost Robot, announced that he was taking it home because he liked it, and explained that he wanted to show it to his mummy. This sparked a gentle discussion about why the books needed to stay safe at school so everyone could enjoy them. Undeterred, he confidently declared that he would instead go home and tell his mummy all about the book he wanted to read next—a perfect example of how quickly these stories captured children’s imaginations.
Welcome to Our Table also proved to be a huge hit, particularly with children who prefer non‑fiction texts. Pupils were fascinated by the facts about how people eat around the world, eagerly turning the pages and sharing what surprised them most. The ice cream page quickly became a firm favourite, regularly revisited and proudly shown to friends.
Reading That Reached Everyone
The books were explored in a variety of ways across the school. Some were shared during whole‑class reading, while others were used in shared and guided reading sessions, allowing pupils time to pause, reflect, and talk meaningfully together. Each text opened rich conversations around emotions, resilience, bravery, identity, and belonging.
Milo and the Mountain resonated deeply with many pupils, particularly its gentle, sensitive portrayal of anxiety and finding the courage to try, even when something feels overwhelming. Isla in the Sky and The Worry Jar supported thoughtful discussions around worries, feelings, and emotional wellbeing.
A Whole‑School Moment to Remember
I also led assemblies where the books were shared with the whole school, and one moment was deeply powerful. The Boy with Flowers in His Hair was read during a whole‑school assembly. On the surface, it is a simple picture book about David and his best friend—but its impact was anything but small. Who would have thought that such a gentle, beautifully illustrated story could hold the attention of over 100 children, including our toughest Year 6 pupils?
The hall was completely still as children listened, absorbed by the illustrations and the message of friendship, acceptance, and being unapologetically yourself. During the reading, one of our SEN pupils quietly climbed up to sit beside me and began to draw. As the story unfolded, he carefully sketched a picture of a boy with what he described as “stuck up bits in his hair.”
When the story finished, the entire school broke into spontaneous applause—an unprompted and unforgettable moment that showed just how deeply the story had resonated.
Inclusion at the Heart of Carnagill
Themes of acceptance, inclusivity, courage, and belonging ran through every text we explored. The Boy with Flowers in His Hair and Welcome to Our Table sparked especially powerful conversations about celebrating differences and ensuring everyone feels seen, valued, and included.
This message is particularly meaningful at Carnagill. As a military school located on a garrison, with many children experiencing movement, separation, and change—and with around 40% of our pupils identified as having SEND—these themes are not abstract concepts. They are part of our everyday life. We see inclusion, empathy, and resilience lived out by our children daily, and we are beyond proud of how they support and accept one another.
We pride ourselves on what we offer all our pupils and on the inclusive, nurturing support we provide to ensure every child can succeed. Experiences such as engaging with these carefully chosen books are just one of the many ways we work to include every child, reflect their experiences, and ensure they know they belong.
Impact Beyond the Page
The impact of the Reading Force books was significant and far‑reaching. Their accessible language and powerful illustrations meant that every child could engage, regardless of reading ability. Even some of our most reluctant readers—particularly in Year 6—were captivated by the imagery and the deeper meanings behind the stories.
These books enabled pupils to see themselves, understand others, and explore difficult themes safely and thoughtfully. They prompted discussion, reflection, and genuine connection across the school.
A Lasting Impression
Reading Force gave our pupils far more than a selection of books. They gave us moments of connection, confidence, reflection, and joy. Quiet children found a voice, reluctant readers found meaning, and our school community came together through shared storytelling.
During the Month of the Military Child, these books offered timely, powerful opportunities to reflect on identity, resilience, and belonging—messages that felt deeply relevant to our children. The experience has left a lasting impression on both pupils and staff alike.
We are incredibly thankful to Reading Force for such a rich, inclusive, and meaningful experience. These stories reminded us of the extraordinary power of books to unite, represent, and celebrate every child within our school community.
Sarah Bradshaw
English Lead and Service Pupil Lead,
Carnagill School,
Catterick Garrison