What to read after the school reading scheme (KS1)

School reading schemes do a specific job: teach decoding in a careful sequence. Once a child is reading independently, the aim changes — now it is about wanting to read. That needs different books.

First "real" chapter books

Look for short chapters, big print, lots of pictures and a character who comes back across a series. Familiarity is a feature at this age — a child who liked book one will ask for book two.

Keep picture books in the mix

Independent reading does not mean the end of picture books. Longer, wordier picture books are perfect for reading together and stretch vocabulary well beyond what a child can decode alone.

Non-fiction and poetry count

• Fact books on a current obsession keep a reluctant reader turning pages.
• Funny poetry collections are easy to dip in and out of.
• Comic-strip books build reading stamina without feeling like work.

Where to look

Browse the KS1 range. Buying a small series in one go — new or used — gives them a run to work through.