Reading Agency continues partnership with Science Museum for Winter Mini Challenge

The Reading Agency has confirmed it is continuing its partnership with the Science Museum Group for the Winter Mini Challenge, which encourages children to continue reading over the winter holidays with a free, digital platform offering rewards and prizes for continuing to read.  

The challenge will continue the "Gadgeteers" theme used in this year’s Summer Reading Challenge. Children can take part online via the challenge website, where they will be able to join six fictional "Gadgeteers".   

The characters – brought to life by children’s writer and illustrator Julian Beresford – use their curiosity and wonder to understand the science behind a whole range of interests, from fashion and technology to cooking and music. The challenge is set a festive party at the Gadgeteers’ community centre. When a sudden snowstorm whirls in, can the Gadgeteers use their ingenuity, creativity and curiosity to keep everyone entertained until the weather brightens? 

Organisers said: “With activity ideas and resources from Science Museum Group, the Winter Mini Challenge will help to spark children’s curiosity about the world around them, inspiring them through creativity and invention.”  

They added: “During the school holidays, some children can experience a "dip" in their reading skills. The Winter Mini Challenge supports this by providing an outlet for children to continue reading for enjoyment outside the classroom. The supporting resources will help families and teachers to provide free-to-access recreational activities over the holiday.” 

This year’s challenge will launch on 1st December and run until 20th February. 

Karen Napier, c.e.o. at The Reading Agency, said: “We know that reading and science skills development go hand in hand. That’s why we’re delighted to be continuing our partnership with Science Museum Group for this year’s Winter Reading Challenge. We hope that the ’Gadgeteers’ will spark the imaginations of children up and down the country this winter.”  

Susan Raikes, director of learning at the Science Museum Group, added: “We are delighted to continue our partnership this year with The Reading Agency for the Winter Reading Challenge. We are sure that the further adventures of the ’Gadgeteers’ will inspire children to use their imagination. Reading ignites curiosity and this is an opportunity to explore the science and innovation all around us.”