Turning the Page: How Reading is Opening New Chapters for Learners in Prison Education

At Novus, we see first-hand the difference that reading can make in the lives of the learners we support. Whether it is improving literacy skills, building confidence, encouraging creativity or simply providing an opportunity to discover new perspectives, reading has the power to unlock potential and create meaningful opportunities for personal growth.

Across the prison estate, learners can engage with reading in a variety of ways, both through education and through activities and initiatives supported by the prison libraries. From reading-focused projects and dedicated courses to book clubs and enrichment groups, these opportunities help learners develop new skills, explore their interests and engage with learning in different ways.

The impact extends far beyond the classroom. Reading can foster communication, strengthen wellbeing, support learning across other subjects and help learners build confidence in themselves and their future aspirations. By creating opportunities for learners to discover books, share ideas and engage with reading, education teams and library colleagues are helping to nurture a culture of learning across prisons.

In this article, we highlight a selection of inspiring reading and library initiatives taking place across the prison estate, showcasing how they are helping learners develop skills, confidence and a lifelong appreciation for reading.

Childhood Reading Memories project at HMP Hatfield

At HMP Hatfield, a creative reading initiative is helping to spark conversations about books and reading. The Childhood Reading Memories project began as a discussion around well-loved children's books, with learners sharing recommendations for titles they would suggest to a young reader.

Following its success in the classroom, the project has expanded across the establishment, with staff and prisoners invited to contribute their own recommendations. These suggestions will help shape the purchase of children's books to be shared during the Christmas period, celebrating the joy of reading and helping to build a culture of reading across the establishment.

Library Society inspires learners through reading and creativity at HMP Forest Bank

The prison library at HMP Forest Bank have successfully launched the Library Society, a weekly enrichment group that is already having a positive impact on learners’ engagement, personal development and attitudes towards learning.

Developed and led by the librarian, the programme combines reading, creative writing and arts-based activities, providing learners with opportunities to build confidence, express themselves creatively and engage in purposeful enrichment. Early sessions introduced learners to zine-making and poetry, with participants embracing the opportunity to explore new forms of creativity and create work of their own.

By encouraging learners to engage with reading, discussion and creative expression, The Library Society is helping to develop literacy skills, broaden cultural awareness and promote wellbeing. It is also encouraging learners to try new experiences, build confidence and engage positively with learning beyond the classroom.

The initiative has already proven popular among learners, highlighting the value of enrichment activities that support creativity, self-improvement and a love of reading. Through programmes like The Library Society, the prison library is helping to foster a culture of learning and lifelong reading.

HMP Stoke Heath introduces new reading course

At HMP Stoke Heath, a new reading course is helping learners overcome barriers to learning by building on core linguistic phonics skills, enabling them to engage with education in ways they may not have done before.

The course is already having a positive impact. One learner, who had previously avoided attending education, has been participating in the class on a daily basis and, over just a few sessions, has learned to read key words. This achievement has given him a new sense of self-belief and helped him feel that he truly belongs within the education environment.

Book Club event at HMP New Hall

The prison library at HMP New Hall recently hosted a highly successful book club event centred around A Particularly Nasty Case by Adam Kay. Nine learners took part after reading the book as part of the library's ongoing reading programme.

To enhance the experience, three representatives from Orion Publishing attended the session and led an engaging question-and-answer discussion, giving learners the opportunity to explore the book's themes, characters and inspiration in greater depth.

Participants arrived well prepared, having read the book and reflected on its content. Throughout the session, they demonstrated excellent engagement, taking turns to read passages aloud and sharing their thoughts and interpretations with confidence.

The Q&A session proved to be a particular highlight, with learners asking thoughtful and insightful questions that reflected their understanding of the text and genuine interest in the discussion. The representatives from Orion Publishing were highly impressed by the group's preparation, engagement and the quality of the conversation throughout the event.

The event showcased the positive impact that reading initiatives can have within a prison setting. By connecting learners with publishing professionals, it transformed a reading activity into a memorable and enriching experience, encouraging a deeper appreciation of literature and further engagement with the library.

Reflecting on the event, a colleague said:

This was a brilliant event that exceeded expectations. All nine learners engaged exceptionally well, contributing thoughtfully throughout the session. It was fantastic to see their confidence grow as they read passages aloud, shared opinions, and asked insightful questions. The visit from Orion Publishing created a unique opportunity for the demonstrated value of providing enriching literary experiences within the prison Library.

Library enrichment group making a positive impact at HMP Wealstun

The library at HMP Wealstun continues to expand its offer, with the introduction of a new Friday morning enrichment group. Led by Novus librarians, the sessions provide learners with opportunities to broaden their cultural capital through interactive activities, reading and positive social interaction.

Working collaboratively, prison colleagues have also introduced a Breakfast Club, creating a welcoming environment that encourages participation and engagement.

Although still in its early stages, the initiative has already received highly positive feedback from learners, many of whom have highlighted benefits to their wellbeing, confidence and personal development. Through opportunities to connect with others, engage with reading and participate in enriching activities, the group is helping to create a positive and supportive learning environment.

Feedback from learners has been overwhelmingly positive, with participants commenting:

I have learnt how to be more sociable.

I will carry on reading books everyday now.

I am more confident with people now.

It helps me relax.

These examples demonstrate the many ways that reading can enrich the learner experience within prison education. Whether through dedicated reading courses, library-led activities, book clubs or collaborative reading projects, each initiative provides opportunities for learners to develop new skills, build confidence and engage positively with learning.

While every learner's journey is different, a common thread runs through each of these stories: the power of reading to inspire curiosity, encourage self-belief and open doors to new possibilities. Through partnerships between education teams, library services and prison colleagues, learners are being encouraged to discover new interests, share ideas and develop a positive relationship with reading.

As these initiatives continue to grow, they highlight the important role that both reading and library provision can play in supporting personal development, wellbeing and educational achievement. Together, they are helping to create environments where learners can build confidence, broaden their horizons and take positive steps forward on their learning journey.

To discover more stories from across Novus, including learner achievements, innovative projects and the positive impact of prison education, visit our news section.