Children at Young Academics Guildford received an unforgettable surprise this Book Week, as players from the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs joined them to officially open the centre’s very first Street Library, a vibrant new community asset designed to promote early literacy, family engagement and a love of reading beyond the classroom.
The event marked a major milestone for both organisations and highlighted the power of local partnerships in delivering impactful early education experiences. Bulldogs players Neil Suluka-Fifita, Mitch Woods, and Blake Taaffe were on hand to unveil the Street Library, participate in the centre’s Book Week Parade, and spend time reading, playing and learning alongside the children.
Dressed in colourful storybook-themed costumes, children proudly marched in the Book Week Parade before gathering around for a very special Bulldogs-led storytime. Players sat shoulder-to-shoulder with the children, reading ‘the very hungry caterpillar’ picture book, engaging in interactive discussions, and encouraging even the youngest learners to join in the storytelling fun.
Beyond the storytime, Bulldogs players took part in play-based literacy experiences, helping children explore stories through music, art, puppetry, and dramatic play. These hands-on learning moments brought books to life and reinforced the importance of literacy in a child’s early developmental years.
Positioned at the entrance to the Guildford centre, the new Street Library is a permanent fixture that invites children, families and passersby to “take a book, leave a book.” Designed to be colourful, accessible, and community-friendly, it serves as a lasting symbol of Young Academics’ commitment to early literacy and inclusion.
“We know that children who are exposed to books from a young age have stronger language, imagination and cognitive skills as they grow,” said Aaron Warburton. “By bringing books to the street, we’re breaking down barriers and making reading part of everyday life.”
The Bulldogs’ support for this initiative builds on their long-standing commitment to the Western Sydney community and youth development programs across the region.
“Partnering with Young Academics on this initiative speaks directly to what the Bulldogs are all about – connection, opportunity, and giving back,” said Aaron Warburton, Bulldogs CEO. “Seeing our players inspire children through reading and play shows how powerful these moments can be.”
The launch event also reinforced the critical role that early literacy plays in shaping a child’s future. According to research, children who are read to daily during their early years are more likely to develop strong language and literacy skills, emotional intelligence, and school readiness.
At Young Academics, early literacy is embedded across all curriculum areas, from language-rich play to guided storytelling, phonemic awareness activities, and creative expression.
This event is the latest in a series of collaborative initiatives between Young Academics and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, who have been working together to deliver engaging, play-based learning opportunities for children and families across NSW.
