Nadine Aisha Jassat’s reader challenges
Resource from Reading Schools ambassador Nadine Aisha Jassat to support discussions with learners and recommendations around their reading interests
Supporting pupils to see themselves as readers is a vital part of nurturing a strong and inclusive reading culture. Reading identity is about more than how often children read or which formats they choose – it’s about belonging, voice and feeling recognised as a reader in their own right.
This resource by Reading Schools ambassador for secondaries, Nadine Aisha Jassat, supports learners to see themselves as readers, whatever their interests, hobbies or starting points.
The resource includes six flexible reader challenges, designed for a wide range of pupils from keen readers to those not sure where to begin, from imaginative storytellers to football lovers and curious thinkers. Challenges are provided as both plain text and printable bookmarks.
Ideal for use in class or school libraries, this resource encourages pupils to self‑identify with a challenge and choose a book that feels right for them. It’s a simple, engaging way to centre learner voice and celebrate the many ways children and young people connect with reading.
You can hear Nadine talking about her resource in our recent shared practice showcase on supporting reading identities.
Further resources
- Key area: 1.2.1 Reading leadership group
- Resource: Discovering my reading identity
- Resource: Our My Life as a Reader PowerPoint can be used to talk to pupils about your identity as a reader throughout your life
- Webinar: Shared Practice: Encouraging Pupil Voice (November 2025 recording)