Jilted bride Miss Havisham met Little Red Riding Hood, when Smithdon High School took part in this year’s World Book Day on Thursday 5 March.

Staff and pupils alike arrived for the annual celebration of reading dressed as their favourite fictional characters, with lunchtime photo sessions taking place in the school library to commemorate the occasion.

“We invited all students from every year group, as well as staff members, to join in the celebrations by dressing up as a favourite book character,” explained our Librarian, Marie Taylor – who set a standard as Miss Haversham from Great Expectations, alongside our Headteacher, Amanda Gibbins, as Little Red Riding Hood.

“This is a tradition we have proudly continued for five years, and it’s always a fantastic way to celebrate reading across the school community.”

World Book Day has become part of a wider, annual Literary Festival at Smithdon, which is a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, with themed activities taking place across the entire week.

“Events like World Book Day are important, because they hopefully promote a love of reading in an engaging and memorable way,” added Miss Taylor, who co-organised the Festival with our Head of English, Amanda Wright.

“They encourage creativity, spark interest in new books, and show that reading is valued across the whole school community.

“Events like this also build confidence, strengthen school spirit, and reinforce our commitment to literacy.”