THE importance of reading novels and poetry was celebrated at a secondary school with everything from costumes to workshops.

Weston Mercury: Poet Vanessa Kisuule with Cerin, Katherine, Laura and Tamara.Poet Vanessa Kisuule with Cerin, Katherine, Laura and Tamara. (Image: Archant)

Churchill Academy and Sixth Form was transformed on Friday as the best bits of the English language were highlighted.

Weston Mercury: Teachers at Churchill Academy dressed up for the dayTeachers at Churchill Academy dressed up for the day (Image: Churchill Academy)

Author Michael Malaghan and poet Vanessa Kisuule were two of the guests welcomed.

A book swap, debate over the rise of eBooks and a story creation workshop made for an entertaining day for pupils.

Pauline Trapp, assistant head and director of support staff, said: “Research shows that reading for pleasure raises achievement in all subject areas and so is key across the whole curriculum.

“We want to support and encourage everyone - students, staff and parents - to pick up a book and feel positive about reading.”