Inspiring a love of reading and raising aspirations
We’re committed to widening access to higher education and supporting social mobility in our local community. The Brunel Book Club is one of the ways we’re helping young people build confidence, develop a love of learning and see university as part of their future.
Supporting young readers to aim higher
Launched in 2023, the Brunel Book Club works with Year 5 and Year 6 pupils from local schools. The programme focuses on children who will benefit most, helping them develop a positive relationship with reading at a key stage in their education.
Through a mix of on-campus and in-school activities, pupils are encouraged to explore books, share ideas and build confidence.
Bringing reading to life
Pupils take part in a year-long programme that includes:
- Interactive launch events on campus
- Weekly book club sessions in school
- Workshops, creative activities and visits from authors
- Opportunities to meet Brunel student ambassadors
- An end-of-year celebration and graduation ceremony
Meeting current students and hearing from a Brunel alumna who is a published author helps pupils relate to real-life role models and better understand what university is like.
Building confidence and aspiration
For many pupils, the Brunel Book Club provides their first experience of university. By creating a welcoming and supportive environment, the programme helps them:
- Feel more confident in their abilities
- Enjoy reading and engage more regularly with books
- Understand the value of education
- Start to imagine themselves progressing to higher education
Making a measurable impact
A survey held in 2026 shows the book club’s impact.
The number of Year 5 pupils who reported reading for enjoyment increased by 33%, with 30% saying that they felt more confident. They were also more aware of how to access books.
Over 80% of Year 6 pupils improved their reading age beyond expectations with an average increase of nine months. Reading comprehension had an average increase of over 17 months, with 73% exceeding expected progress.
Feedback from families and schools was equally positive:
- Nearly 90% of parents reported improved confidence and interest in reading
- 60% of teachers observed stronger reading ability
Teachers also noted improved engagement, wider classroom participation and a ripple effect with participants’ enthusiasm for reading spreading to other pupils.
A model for widening participation
The Brunel Book Club demonstrates how early, sustained engagement can help break down barriers to higher education. By combining literacy development with exposure to university life, the programme supports pupils to develop skills, confidence and ambition.
Want to find out more?
We are proud to share our approach and outcomes as part of our ongoing commitment to widening participation and creating opportunities for all. Please email Emily Healy (Senior Widening Access Officer) emily.healy@brunel.ac.uk for more information.