Literacy & Numeracy Week

Literacy & Numeracy Week is celebrated annually from August 29 to September 4. In 2026, this date falls on a Saturday. This week-long event across Australia champions the foundational skills of reading, writing, and mathematics, recognizing the vital role these abilities play in every aspect of life.

History of Literacy & Numeracy Week

Literacy & Numeracy Week was founded by the Australian Government as a dedicated initiative to promote and encourage literacy, writing, and numeracy skills among students. The week serves as an important reminder of the collective effort required to build these essential competencies, highlighting the significant contributions of teachers, parents, and communities in fostering young learners' development.

Over the years, the event has grown into an annual celebration that shines a light on the incredible work happening daily in early childhood settings, schools, and communities across Australia. The NSW Department of Education, among other state bodies, actively supports the week by providing resources, classroom activities, and events that help educators and families engage students in meaningful literacy and numeracy experiences.

Why is Literacy & Numeracy Week important?

Literacy and numeracy are life skills that form the foundation of learning across all subjects. Literacy helps individuals communicate, understand others, share stories, and make sense of the world through language. Numeracy gives people the confidence to problem-solve, make informed decisions, and engage with the world in logical and meaningful ways. These skills are essential for participation in work, further study, and everyday life.

Strong literacy and numeracy skills empower children and young people to think critically, question deeply, and create boldly. They enable students to take ownership of their learning and their future. The week also highlights the powerful role that teachers, leaders, and support staff play in creating moments of connection that inspire a love of reading, confidence in exploring patterns and numbers, and the joy of writing for a purpose.

• Literacy and numeracy are essential for communication, problem-solving, and informed decision-making.
• These skills form the foundation for learning in all academic subjects.
• They empower students to think critically and take ownership of their education.
• Teachers and parents play a crucial role in developing these foundational skills.
• The week provides an opportunity to celebrate achievements and share success stories.

How to Celebrate Literacy & Numeracy Week

Schools, early childhood settings, and communities across Australia mark Literacy & Numeracy Week with a variety of engaging activities. Educators often organize special classroom events, reading challenges, and numeracy games that make learning fun and interactive. Parents can participate by reading with their children at home, exploring math in everyday situations like cooking or shopping, and celebrating their child's progress in these essential skills.

Communities can get involved by hosting storytime sessions at local libraries, organizing numeracy-themed scavenger hunts, or sharing success stories on social media using dedicated hashtags. The week is also a perfect time for schools to showcase their literacy and numeracy programs through newsletters, websites, and community events, highlighting the incredible work happening every day to build strong foundations for all students.

• Organize a reading challenge or book swap at your school or library.
• Host a numeracy game day with puzzles, board games, and math challenges.
• Invite a local author or mathematician to speak to students.
• Create a classroom or community display showcasing student work in literacy and numeracy.
• Share your celebrations on social media to inspire others and recognize achievements.

Literacy & Numeracy Week Dates