Primary schools across Suffolk are being invited to take part in a new reading competition offering major prizes for pupils and classrooms, as part of a nationwide push to get more children reading for pleasure.
High street retailer TGJones has launched its Bitesize Bookworms competition to mark the National Year of Reading 2026, with more than £17,000 in prizes available across the UK.
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Children are asked to explain what they love about their favourite book in 25 words or fewer. The challenge is open to primary-age pupils and schools, with three age groups spanning Reception to Year Six.
Each overall winner will receive a £200 TGJones gift card, alongside £4,000 worth of books and stationery for their school. Runners-up will receive a £50 gift card plus £500 of equipment for their school.
Three winners and nine runners-up will be selected by a judging panel that includes former primary school teacher and rapper MC Grammar, alongside broadcasters Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan.
The competition links with the National Year of Reading 2026, a Department for Education initiative supported by the National Literacy Trust, and aligns closely with the East Anglian Daily Times’ Born & Read in Suffolk campaign, which promotes reading and literacy across the county.
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David Hayman, director of the National Year of Reading 2026, said: “Reading has the power to open doors, spark imagination and build confidence in every child. Through the National Year of Reading 2026, we’re encouraging families, schools and communities to rediscover the joy of books and inspire a lifelong love of reading."
Research carried out to support the competition suggests children are already spending significant time reading. A poll of 1,500 children aged between five and 12 found they read for an average of 6.8 hours a week. Of that, 3.8 hours is spent reading for pleasure, compared with three hours on homework.
The figures put reading ahead of gaming at 5.5 hours a week, playing outside at 6.2 hours, and chatting with friends at 5.8 hours.
The same research explored what motivates children to pick up a book. More than half said they want to learn new things, while four in 10 said a book’s cover influences their choice. A third said they are keen to read the same books as their friends.
When it comes to favourite characters, Harry Potter topped the list, followed by The Gruffalo and Matilda. Paddington Bear and Peter Rabbit also featured heavily in children’s choices. JK Rowling ranked as the most popular author, ahead of Roald Dahl and Julia Donaldson.
Alex Willson, chief executive of TGJones and head judge of the competition, said: “Nothing is more creative than a child’s imagination and we want to celebrate that unfiltered, accidental comedy that comes from a child giving their honest opinion about their favourite book.
“Reading is so important for a child’s development, and as partners of the National Year of Reading 2026 we hope this campaign encourages more children to pick up their favourite book.”
Schools and families in Suffolk can submit entries through the online entry page here. The competition closes at 11.59pm on Friday, June 5, 2026.
This story is published as part of Born & Read in Suffolk, a year-long initiative highlighting the importance of reading and writing, delivered in partnership with the National Centre for Writing and Suffolk Community Libraries, sponsored by Sizewell C and and Suffolk Coastal Port Health Authority, and supported by Ipswich Town Football Club. Follow the campaign throughout the year in our coverage and on social media using #BornAndRead2026 or get in touch at readingmatters@newsquest.co.uk
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