A reading exercise with competition has linked a homebuilder in Harworth with local schoolchildren.

As part of its summer reading challenge, Barratt Homes donated books to Serlby Park School, to strengthen its library’s resources, and set the pupils a challenge.

The pupils are to read a book over the summer, then fill in a booklet with a review of the book and a drawing of their favourite character’s home.

Once completed, pupils will return their booklets to Lancaster Gardens for a prize and the chance of winning a free family day out to Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

Pupils and staff from Serlby Park School with a Barratt Homes representative, and some of the books they have been given.

placeholder image — Pupils and staff from Serlby Park School with a Barratt Homes representative, and some of the books they have been given.

Kadie Smith, literacy centre manager at Serlby Park Academy, said: “We’re excited to be partnering with Barratt Homes to launch the Summer Reading Competition and are extremely grateful for its generous donation of books.

“This exciting competition will help create a real buzz for reading over the summer holidays, supporting our commitment to developing a love of reading at Serlby Park Academy.”

The challenge comes at an exciting time, with the National Literacy Trust also launching its National Year of Reading in 2026.

Backed by the Department for Education, the initiative is encouraging readers to ‘Go All In’ and read about their passions. Whether this be football, dancing, gaming, or a wide variety of other topics, they believe that starting with passion, rather than pressure, is the best way to build a strong reading culture across the UK.

Daniel Smith, managing director at Barratt Homes Yorkshire East, said: “We are thrilled to be able to engage schools across the region in a summer reading challenge. As a major housebuilder, it is vital that we invest in young people, their well-being and education.

“Reading helps to expand horizons, not only educationally but also through personal growth, helping young people build confidence and empathy. We are looking forward to receiving the completed booklets from the schools and hope the pupils have a lot of fun over the summer completing the challenge.”

Lancaster Gardens is located in a sought-after area in Harworth, with a range of three and four bedroom homes on offer starting from £205,000.

To find out more about the development and available homes, visit the website at Lancaster Gardens.

To find out more about any nearby developments in the county visit the website at Barratt Homes In Nottinghamshire.