Could you be a Champion of Reading for Children's Books Ireland?
Please note: applications for this opportunity are now closed.
Each year Children's Books Ireland recruit artists (authors and illustrators) to become Champions of Reading in the schools involved in our book-gifting programmes. Our book-gifting programmes focus on schools in need or experiencing disadvantage and give students equal opportunities to read excellent books. As part of the programme, we bring artists into the classroom to help boost students' enjoyment of reading, we provide a range of new books to help build and replenish school libraries and we support teachers with resources to promote reading for joy.
Suitable applicants
We are seeking children’s book authors or illustrators who are residents on the island of Ireland to become Champions of Reading for schools in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. This is a paid opportunity for artists. Applicants must have at least two books for children published by a recognised publisher. We want to encourage a literature sector in Ireland that is truly inclusive, fair, vibrant and progressive. As such, we welcome applications from all.
Please note, we will retain your submission for the next 3 years, unless you chose to opt out. All artist information will be stored in a database that helps us to connect you with more exciting opportunities going forward!
How to apply
Applications should be submitted by clicking the button below. Submissions must be received before 5pm on Monday 14th September 2025.
If you have any questions or need further support with your application please contact our Artist and Programme Officer Melissa on melissa@childrensbooksireland.ie
Champion of Reading roles required from 2026-2028
Every Child a Reader
- The Every Child a Reader programme is based in primary schools.
- As part of this project, the Champion of Reading will make six visits to the selected primary school.
- Each visit duration is two hours.
Everyone a Reader
- The Everyone a Reader programme is based in secondary schools.
- As part of this project, the Champion of Reading will make six visits to the selected secondary school.
- Each visit duration is two hours.
Monster Doodle
- Most suited to the community of illustrators, a Monster Doodle is one visit of two hours to the selected school.
Champions of Reading make a difference!
Did you know?
National Literacy Trust (UK) research shows that author visits are associated with greater reading for pleasure: children who had an author visit to their school reported higher levels of reading enjoyment (68.2% vs 47.2%) and writing enjoyment (43.9% vs 32.4%) than their peers who didn’t receive a visit.
Take a look at out projects in action and hear from our past Champions and book-gifting schools below.
'With the teachers, Children's Books Ireland and our library project, we have been able to create a reading environment that will nourish and support joyful reading among all the children in this school - now and in the years to come. What a privilege to have been part of such an important mission, helping every child to experience the joy and empowerment of books and reading.'
- Sarah Moore Fitzgerald, Champion of Reading at Scoil Chroí Íosa, Galway.
'Our artist workshops with Kim Sharkey were inspirational for both pupils and staff alike. We thoroughly enjoyed having Kim visit our school and hope that we will be able to work with her again in the future.'
– Joan McCandless, Deputy Principal, Scoil Mhuire Dristernan, Donegal
