We’re excited to share that the Summer Reading Challenge 2026 is launching this July, with this year’s theme “Read to the Beat”, a fun, music-inspired challenge celebrating reading, rhythm, and creativity!

 

The Challenge will run in Essex libraries from Saturday 18 July to Saturday 5 September, giving children the opportunity to enjoy books over the summer, build confidence in their reading, and earn rewards along the way. 

 

 

The Summer Reading Challenge helps children:

·Maintain and improve their reading skills during the summer break. (The ‘Summer slide’ can cause children to lose up to 20% of their reading gains made during the previous school year (Gov.UK).)

·Discover new books and authors

·Build confidence and a love of reading

·Stay engaged and motivated through a fun, themed programme

Three brand-new Epping Forest Treasure Trails in Ongar, Loughton and Waltham Abbey, designed as fun, self-guided walking adventures suitable for all ages. Each trail takes around two hours to complete, with clues ranging from simple to challenging to ensure everyone can get involved.

 

 Thanks to UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) support, the District Council is able to offer the first 500 downloads for each trail completely free of charge on a first-come, first‑served basis.

 

 These trails aim to:

• Encourage families to get outdoors and enjoy local walking routes
• Build pride in our towns and neighbourhoods
• Increase footfall in our high streets
• Celebrate local architecture, history, landscapes and hidden stories

 We would be grateful if you could share this opportunity with your school community through Parent Mail or preferred communication channel.

 

How families can take part

1. Choose your local Epping Forest trail and click the link to go straight to it:

·       Ongar Trail – https://www.treasuretrails.co.uk/products/chipping-ongar-treasure-hunt

·       Loughton Trail – https://www.treasuretrails.co.uk/products/loughton-treasure-hunt

·       Waltham Abbey Trail – https://www.treasuretrails.co.uk/products/waltham-abbey-treasure-hunt

1. Add your chosen trail to the basket.
2. Use the relevant code at checkout to download the trail for free:

·       Ongar: Ongar2026

·       Waltham Abbey: WalthamAbbey2026

·       Loughton: Loughton2026

 These trails offer a fantastic way for families to explore their local area together while learning about the history and character of our district.