WATCH: Ten-year-old Cassidy Hendricks inspires matric pupils with her reading skills
Cassidy Hendricks reading to learners at Fairmount High School as part of her contribution to WRAD
Image: Supplied
Ten-year-old Cassidy Hendricks from Lotus River is proving that a love for reading can bridge even the widest age gaps. The Grade 5 learner recently captivated matric pupils nearly twice her age when she delivered a reading session for the matric class of 2026 at Fairmount High School in Grassy Park.
Cassidy addressed the senior learners during a school assembly held in recognition of World Read Aloud Day, an annual global literacy initiative observed on the first Wednesday of February.
The day, founded in 2010 by international non-profit organisation LitWorld, promotes the importance of reading aloud to strengthen literacy skills and build community connections.
Standing confidently before the matric learners, Cassidy read excerpts from Life of Pi, the award-winning and deeply symbolic novel by Canadian author Yann Martel, as well as another story titled A New Friend by Nal'ibali. The novel is particularly significant as it forms part of the matric prescribed reading list for this year.
Reflecting on the experience, Cassidy said the opportunity to read to older learners was both exciting and memorable.
“It was easy because the matriculants were respectful and I was allowed to do what I love,” she said. “I read A New Friend and Life of Pi. The book Life of Pi is a prescribed book for matriculants this year. It was really enjoyable.”
Despite her natural confidence, Cassidy admitted she initially felt nervous addressing learners several years older than her.
“It wasn’t challenging even though I was a bit nervous when I started, but they made me feel at ease when I saw them listening to me read,” she said.
Cassidy has quickly earned recognition in literacy circles as a young reading ambassador, regularly sharing her passion for books within her community. Her remarkable reading journey began at an early age when her fascination with books became evident to both her family and teachers.
By the age of eight, Cassidy had already developed an extensive vocabulary and was reading complex literary classics, including Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. Her interests have since evolved, with Greek mythology becoming one of her favourite genres.
She enjoys exploring stories about ancient gods, legendary heroes and mythical creatures, often navigating intricate names and layered storylines with ease.
Her literacy talent has also earned her accolades through the South African Literacy Association (SALA) competitions. Cassidy secured second place in 2022 before claiming first place in 2023. After taking a brief break from competitive events last year, she has returned to literacy advocacy with renewed enthusiasm.
Educators who have worked with Cassidy have described her as articulate, confident and deeply passionate about encouraging a culture of reading among young people. Her ability to hold the attention of senior learners has drawn particular admiration, highlighting how peer inspiration can play a powerful role in education.
During her World Read Aloud Day appearance, matric pupils listened attentively as Cassidy navigated complex passages from Life of Pi, demonstrating fluency, expression and a deep understanding of the text. Teachers present at the assembly noted that her performance served as a reminder of how reading aloud can enhance comprehension and build confidence among learners of all ages.
Beyond formal events, Cassidy continues to participate in community reading workshops where she motivates other children to discover the joy of literature. Her involvement reflects a growing commitment to literacy development and community upliftment.
Cassidy said the experience of engaging with matric learners has inspired her to continue expanding her literacy advocacy work.
“I would really love to go back and interact with more learners on this level,” she said.