On Thursday 5 March, CFBL celebrated World Book Day, the international event dedicated to the joy of reading and the discovery of books. Throughout the day, pupils and staff took part in a variety of activities highlighting the importance of stories and literature.
This year, all primary pupils explored a shared book studied in both French and English: What We’ll Build by Oliver Jeffers. Working with the same text in both languages allowed pupils to deepen their understanding of the story while sharing ideas and reflections in class.
As is tradition, many pupils also came to school dressed as their favourite literary characters. The primary corridors were filled with characters straight out of the pages of well-loved books, creating a lively and imaginative atmosphere throughout the day.
Reception (Grande Section) pupils took part in a drama workshop led by the dynamic Stagecoach team. Inspired by the book What We’ll Build by Oliver Jeffers – another text studied by primary classes this year – the workshop encouraged children to bring the story to life through singing, music and dance. Pupils thoroughly enjoyed stepping into different roles and exploring the story in a creative way.
CFBL’s libraries also organised a book swap for both primary and secondary pupils. Students were invited to bring a book they wished to share. In exchange, they received a ticket allowing them to choose another book from those donated. Each book included a small note with the name and class of the donor, highlighting the spirit of generosity and sharing behind the initiative.
In the secondary school, the day was marked by a visit from French author Flore Vesco, who met several year groups throughout the day. In preparation for the event, students had read her short story collection Elle est le vent furieux. This allowed them to discover her literary world and come prepared with questions about her work and the writing process.
Students also took part in the DEAR – Drop Everything and Read initiative, with the first fifteen minutes of each lesson dedicated to reading for pleasure. Both pupils and staff joined in by bringing a book and taking time to read.
Other activities throughout the day included voting for the Year 8 (5ème) short story competition, a visit to The Owl Bookshop for some Year 9 (4ème) students, and the Great Big Footy & Booky Quiz for Year 11 (3ème) pupils.
The celebration even extended to the canteen, where the catering team created a special World Book Day display. This creative touch helped carry the spirit of the day beyond the classroom and highlighted how books and stories can be celebrated throughout the whole school.
Finally, a cross-phase reading moment brought together Year 10 (3ème) and Year 2 (CP) pupils. The older students read stories to the younger children, offering CP pupils a wonderful moment of listening and discovery while allowing the older students to share their enjoyment of reading. This meeting between pupils from different year groups reflected the spirit of collaboration and community at CFBL.
The day was a wonderful reminder of how reading brings our school community together and inspires curiosity and imagination in learners of all ages.