At Taunton Pre-Prep School we are passionate about instilling a love for reading in every child. In the early years of a child’s education, few things are as powerful as learning to read. Reading is not just about recognising words on a page — it is about opening doors to imagination, building confidence, and laying the foundations for lifelong learning. From the very first picture books shared at home to the moment a child reads their first sentence independently, these early experiences shape how children feel about reading for years to come. When reading is enjoyable and pressure-free, children are far more likely to develop a lasting love of books.

One very special member of our school community is helping to nurture this love of reading — our school dog, Freddie. Each week, children have the opportunity to sit with Freddie and share a story with him. Whether they are confident readers or just beginning their reading journey, Freddie offers the same warm welcome: a wagging tail, calm presence, and a pair of attentive ears. For many children, reading aloud can feel daunting. They may worry about making mistakes or reading too slowly. But Freddie is the perfect audience — he never interrupts, never corrects, and never judges. His gentle presence helps children relax, which in turn improves fluency and confidence. In fact, story time with the children is Freddie’s favourite part of the week. Miss Lewis and Freddie enjoy making reading sessions something truly special.

And if you ask Freddie? He’ll tell you (with a happy wag) that there’s nothing better than a good book and a child who is proud to read it.