London Schools Drop Costumes for a More Inclusive World Book Day
Schools across London are changing the way they celebrate World Book Day to help ease financial pressures on families. Instead of elaborate costumes, many schools are encouraging children wear pyjamas or dress as a word, making the event more inclusive.
Several schools, including St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School in Camden, Pimlico Primary School, and City of London Primary Academy in Islington, have embraced themes like ‘Bedtime Stories’ or vocabulary-based dress-ups. Others, such as St Mary’s Church of England Primary School in Islington, are opting for a ‘Read Their Way’ event, allowing children to enjoy the day in comfortable clothing like tracksuits and pyjamas.
Headteachers emphasize that costly costumes can create barriers to reading, with some parents spending up to £50 per child. Instead, the focus this year is on celebrating a love of reading and language—without financial or social pressure.
