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David Appleyard

David Appleyard

David has over a decade of experience in early years and reading as a school governor and EYFS lead. He's spent 20+ years working in online education for Envato and Design Shack, teaching creative and technical skills to millions (and managing a team of educators).

He's also taught two boys to read from scratch — and remembers exactly how bewildering the early stages can feel. He knows this journey from both sides of the fence.

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Celebrate Black History Month: explore stories of courage and culture

Celebrate Black History Month: explore stories of courage and culture

October 1, 2025 • 5 min read

Celebrate Black History Month: explore stories of courage and culture

Celebrate Black History Month through reading. Diverse books for children, author recommendations, and activities that build representation and empathy.

Cosy up with Reading Chest this autumn

September 18, 2025 • 2 min read

Cosy up with Reading Chest this autumn

Ahoy matey! Bringing Talk Like a Pirate Day to life with reading activities

September 11, 2025 • 6 min read

Ahoy matey! Bringing Talk Like a Pirate Day to life with reading activities

Whizzpopping ways to celebrate Roald Dahl Day

September 10, 2025 • 8 min read

Whizzpopping ways to celebrate Roald Dahl Day

How to keep kids reading all summer (without a battle)

July 17, 2025 • 7 min read

How to keep kids reading all summer (without a battle)

Stories that spark creativity: fun ways to mix reading and art for Children’s Art Week

Stories that spark creativity: fun ways to mix reading and art for Children’s Art Week

June 29, 2025 • 5 min read

Stories that spark creativity: fun ways to mix reading and art for Children’s Art Week

Spark your child's creativity this Children's Art Week by mixing reading with art. Picture books, drawing activities and story-inspired crafts.

National Writing Day: using reading to spark children’s writing

June 23, 2025 • 5 min read

National Writing Day: using reading to spark children’s writing

Make Father’s Day about stories, not just socks

June 12, 2025 • 5 min read

Make Father’s Day about stories, not just socks

New! Printed certificates now included in your book packs

June 11, 2025 • 2 min read

New! Printed certificates now included in your book packs

Making the most of the May half-term holidays: reading activities for children

May 23, 2025 • 6 min read

Making the most of the May half-term holidays: reading activities for children

Reading and mental health: supporting children’s wellbeing

Reading and mental health: supporting children’s wellbeing

May 12, 2025 • 5 min read

Reading and mental health: supporting children’s wellbeing

How reading helps children's wellbeing during Mental Health Awareness Week. Practical ideas and book suggestions for supporting emotional health.