This year's edition of the day, which draws together students from schools in the local and broader area, was held at St Edward's last Wednesday, with plenty of activities focusing on the role of the storyteller.

Mr McNamara said that with a plethora of distractions often at children's fingertips, the reading day plays a crucial role in reaffirming the positive role reading can play in education.

"Even though we can read off devices and different things, I think the enjoyment and stimulation you get from a good book is vital for our little people," he said

"Books bring a lot of joy to people's lives and we need to instill that in our young people as early as possible."

Characters such as Captain Barnacles - whose morning storytelling session was well-received by the kids in attendance - and Freda the Platypus were also on hand to lead children through planned activities, while children's illustrator Nathaniel Eckstrom also ran workshops throughout the day.

Mr McNamara said the activities marked a slight shift in focus compared to previous iterations of the event.

"Usually we do a lot of group work. This year we've just designed to bring in a storyteller, and we have the illustrator, Nathaniel Eckstrom, just to give the kids some special workshops as well," he said.

While this year's edition was held at St Edward's, it usually shared on an alternating basis with Canowindra Primary School, though in some year's at has been held at Anzac Park.

The principal, who has enjoyed a long association with St Edward's, said that a common sense of purpose drives the schools who organise the annual event.

"It creates a great sense of community: We're all focused on helping little people learn," Mr McNamara said.

"That's our core business, and to do this in one setting, is a great opportunity for all of our schools and preschools."

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