On the pleasant morning of September 6th, 2025, an exceptional group of diverse Grade 6 students gathered at the University of Pretoria in Gauteng for an unforgettable experience. These young scholars traveled from across South Africa, each representing their province as one of the top three students competing for the prestigious national title: “Best Grade 6 Reader of South Africa,” powered by eyebraingym.
A Partnership That Inspires
The University of Pretoria once again proudly hosted this remarkable event, demonstrating their commitment to fostering literacy and academic excellence among South Africa’s youth. As part of the competition experience, all participants received an exclusive tour of the UP campus, offering them a firsthand glimpse into university life and the incredible opportunities that await them. This partnership between Reading Riot and the University of Pretoria continues to inspire young minds to dream big and read widely..
A Competition Like No Other
Reading Riot, powered by eyebraingym, successfully held its 2nd National Reading Competition with overwhelming success. The provincial excitement, enthusiastic student participation, and glowing teacher feedback left the Reading Riot team filled with gratitude and pride.
This year, our passionate and dedicated team went the extra mile by hand-delivering provincial certificates to students who placed in the top ten of their province. This gesture acknowledged their exceptional skills and reminded all South African scholars that reading for meaning is the foundation of academic excellence—and the gateway to a brighter future.
Celebrating Our National Champions
The podium positions showcase the incredible talent across our nation:
🥇 National Champion: Ben Coetser from Glenwood House, George, Western Cape
🥈 Runner-up: Rifumo Baloyi from Ridgeway Preparatory, Louis Trichardt, Limpopo
🥉 Third Place: Tatum Hobson from Glenwood House, George, Western Cape
How amazing that Glenwood House claimed both first and third place!
Top 10 National Finalists
Ben Coetser – Glenwood House, Western Cape
Rifumo Baloyi – Ridgeway Preparatory, Limpopo
Tatum Hobson – Glenwood House, Western Cape
Jack van Rensburg – Selborne Primary, Eastern Cape
Ernie Enslin – Monument Primary School, Gauteng
Mbulelo Tolom – Klerksdorp Primary School, North West
Sorena Zarei – Grey Junior, Eastern Cape
Hlumelo Ndimandi – Grey Junior, Eastern Cape
Aliyana Sophia James – Parkside Primary, KwaZulu-Natal
Maddison Findlay – Laddsworth Primary School, KwaZulu-Natal
Gratitude and Looking Ahead
We extend our heartfelt thanks to our generous sponsors—Lectorsa, eyebraingym, and M3line—whose passion and commitment made this event possible. Their support is nothing short of remarkable.
Mark Your Calendars: Reading Riot 2026 Competition Schedule
We’re thrilled to announce the competition dates for Reading Riot 2026!
Here’s how the journey to becoming South Africa’s Best Grade 6 Reader unfolds:
📚 Test Round/Enrollment: May 4-15, 2026
Get registered and prepare for the competition ahead!
📖 Round 1: May 18-22, 2026
Compete against yourself and set your personal best.
📘 Round 2: May 25-29, 2026
Challenge your classmates and rise to the top of your school.
📙 Round 3: June 1-5, 2026
The top 10 students from each school in your province compete for provincial glory.
🏆 Round 4 – National Finals: June 27, 2026
The top three students from each province battle for the national title of Best Grade 6 Reader in South Africa at the University of Pretoria.
🌍 Round 5 – International Championship: June 27, 2026 (Afternoon)
For the first time ever, our top 3 national finalists will compete against international candidates for the prestigious title of International Best Grade 6 Reader!
Your Path to Excellence Starts Here
Will your Grade 6 student be our next Reading Riot Maverick? This is your chance to be part of something extraordinary—potentially our first international literacy competition!
Stay Connected
Follow us on social media for provincial ranking announcements and updates.
Sign up for our newsletter to receive competition reminders and preparation tips.
Ensure your Grade 6 learners don’t miss this incredible opportunity!
Join us in spreading the excitement, passion, and fun of reading for meaning—because every child deserves the chance to discover their potential through literacy!
Visit the University of Pretoria, showcase your reading skills, and compete for national and international glory.
Reading Riot 2026 awaits!
