Reigniting a passion for reading through diverse voices in schools
The question of how to encourage children to read has become a hotly debated topic in educational circles. At the heart of this discussion lies the Lit in Colour movement, which advocates for a significant overhaul of English Literature education in schools. Campaigners argue that current GCSE reading lists are outdated and fail to mirror the diverse society in which today's students live.
Research highlights disconnect between students and school books
A study conducted by Public First for Lit in Colour reveals some concerning statistics. It found that 33% of young people report that the books they encounter at school actually discourage them from reading. In contrast, a substantial 68% express a desire for an English curriculum that more accurately represents modern Britain. This data underscores a growing gap between traditional educational materials and the interests of contemporary pupils.
Student perspectives on the importance of diversity in literature
Students at The Swan School in Oxfordshire have shared their experiences with the campaign's initiatives. Saba emphasised to Sky News that "difference and diversity is important in literature because I think it helps everyone deepen that understanding of the world." She added, "It's also important that everyone can see themselves in literature." This sentiment is echoed by her peers, who believe that exposure to a wider range of voices can foster empathy and broaden horizons.
Caspar noted that engaging with diverse texts has made him "more empathetic and open to other people's lives and what's going on." He explained, "You never really understand what's going through someone's life until you actually see what's happening." Meanwhile, Caleb highlighted how such literature boosts self-belief, stating it makes "us aware that we can do anything, especially for me, being a young black man in this generation." Bana pointed out that diverse reading materials introduce "different perspectives that some students might not be able to see or are not familiar with."
Educational support and government recommendations
Harriet Hintzer, head of English at The Swan School, told Sky News that campaigns like Lit in Colour demonstrate that "kids do love reading, if you give them the right stuff." She noted that such initiatives have made it easier for educators to access and share resources. The government's recent Curriculum and Assessment Review has recommended that schools ensure pupils study diverse books and poems. However, campaigners argue that the pace of implementing these changes remains frustratingly slow.
Critics warn against diluting academic rigour
Not everyone is convinced that expanding the curriculum is the right approach. Critics, including Dr Alka Sehgal Cuthbert, director at the group Don't Divide Us, warn that this could compromise academic standards. She insists that classic authors like Shakespeare and Dickens should remain central to English literature, as their works represent unique literary talent that transcends their historical contexts. Dr Cuthbert argues that students are "sold short" if literary quality is sacrificed, suggesting that while diverse books might be suitable for personal enjoyment, they may not meet the rigorous standards required for the curriculum.
Current inclusion of diverse authors in exam boards
Some progress has been made, with certain exam boards now including works by authors such as Malorie Blackman, Dame Meera Syal, Kit De Waal, and Kazuo Ishiguro. Curricula also feature texts by Chinua Achebe, Zadie Smith, and Vikram Seth. A spokesperson for the Department for Education stated, "High and rising standards are at the heart of the government's mission to break down barriers to opportunity and ensure all children can achieve and thrive." They added that in response to the Curriculum and Assessment Review, the government will ensure the curriculum allows space for teachers to select a wider range of texts and authors alongside classic English literature.
