Shaping Future Educators with the YAL Reading Group

Reading opens doors to imagination, creativity and understanding. At the University of Brighton, we believe that English teachers play a crucial role in helping secondary learners unlock those doors, guiding them to become confident and enthusiastic readers. 

However, both the importance of regular reading for post-primary pupils as well as Secondary English teachers’ role in developing reading motivation is often undervalued and overlooked. 

This is partly due to the demands of the KS4 curriculum and the pressure to demonstrate “value-added” through GCSE results. However, continuously building students’ reading proficiency is vital to their success in exams and life beyond compulsory schooling.  

To really make a difference, English teachers need up-to-date knowledge and experience of the whole spectrum of reading materials and styles out there. 

Familiarity with Young Adult Literature (YAL) is particularly important for supporting secondary learners. It allows book recommendations to be made that match their interests and level, which can really boost their engagement and excitement about reading. 

One of the unique ways we support this is through our YAL Reading Group, an innovative part of our (Secondary) English PGCE course. 

The group gives student teachers the chance to engage with contemporary literature that resonates with secondary students, helping them to build a deeper repertoire of texts and pedagogical strategies.  

The YAL Reading Group isn’t just about reading for pleasure—it’s about learning how to foster a love of reading in students, improving their reading proficiency in the process.  

Anne Denmead, (Secondary) English PGCE course lead said: “Regular reading group meetings provide a platform to discuss diverse novels, explore creative methods to inspire students, and practice leading meaningful book discussions – helping our student teachers gain confidence in moderating group conversations in a supportive, collaborative environment.”  

One of our student teachers reflected on their experience in the reading group saying, “Being asked questions about books gave me ideas for engaging with students about their books.” Another student shared “Reading YAL helped me connect with my teenage self and reminded me why I fell in love with English in the first place.”  

This is just one of the many ways we set ourselves apart. Joining the University of Brighton will equip you with the skills and knowledge to transform your teaching and inspire a lifelong love of reading in your students. 

Ready to inspire? Find out how you can become a teacher with the University of Brighton.