Clayton Andries founded the Heatherdale Book Club to promote literacy among the local youth. Through regular reading sessions and community engagement, the club provides a space for young people to develop essential skills and expand their knowledge beyond the classroom.
“Books open doors to worlds beyond our own. If we can inspire just one child to dream bigger, we’ve done something remarkable.”
The Heatherdale Book Club Buddies is more than just a reading group; it’s a space where young people come together to explore literature, embrace diversity, and feel a sense of belonging. Founded by educator Clayton Andries, the club is a haven for those who often feel like outsiders, offering them a platform to engage with books and each other in meaningful ways.
“The inspiration to start the Heatherdale Book Club Buddies came from a deep desire to create a space where young people could connect, explore diverse perspectives, and feel supported in their individual journeys of self-discovery,” says Clayton.
“As a strong believer in the power of stories, I realised how important it is for young people to have access to literature that reflects who they are, as well as stories that challenge them to think critically about the world around them.”
From the beginning, Clayton envisioned a club that would not only promote reading but also foster discussions about identity, diversity, and acceptance in a judgment-free environment. The response from members has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing that they feel empowered to embrace their unique identities through literature. However, building the club into what it is today has come with its fair share of challenges.
“The process of establishing the club and creating a consistent, safe space for everyone took time, especially as we navigated figuring out the best ways to ensure that every voice felt heard,” Clayton explains. “But the growth and enthusiasm I’ve seen from the group has been more than worth it.”
Creating an inclusive environment was a priority from the outset. Clayton knows first-hand how isolating it can feel to be “the odd one out”, which is why the club intentionally welcomes those who might feel excluded elsewhere.
“Many young people struggle with fitting in, whether it’s because of their interests, personalities, or life experiences,” he says. “By making the book club a safe space for those who are typically left out, I wanted to offer them a sense of community and belonging. It’s not just about reading books – it’s about creating connections, boosting self-esteem, and showing that everyone has something valuable to bring to the table.”
In today’s digital age, where short-form content and constant screen time dominate, Clayton emphasises the importance of developing a love for reading among young people. He believes books cultivate patience, focus, and empathy in ways that digital media often cannot.
“Reading helps children and young adults build the ability to focus, think critically, and engage deeply with content, rather than skimming through it,” he notes. “Books, especially those with rich narratives, stimulate imagination, empathy, and complex thinking.”
However, getting students excited about reading isn’t always easy. Competing with social media, video games, and entertainment platforms requires creative strategies. Clayton tackles this challenge by making reading relevant and enjoyable.
“Offering books that are aligned with their interests, whether that’s fantasy, sports, or graphic novels, can make a huge difference,” he says. “I also incorporate technology in a way that complements reading, like using audiobooks or interactive e-books.”
His approach to teaching English is similarly dynamic. “I try to incorporate my passion for books and reading in ways that make the material feel alive and relatable for my students,” he shares. “I start by sharing my own excitement for reading. Whether through recommending books, discussing personal favourites, or even talking about how reading has influenced my own life.”
Encouraging student-led discussions, exploring contemporary literature, and allowing learners to choose their reading material all contribute to an engaging classroom experience.
Beyond the classroom and the book club, Clayton is passionate about leadership and community engagement. “Leadership, to me, means inspiring and empowering others to reach their full potential, while also guiding them with integrity and compassion,” he says. “It’s about leading by example and creating an environment where everyone feels valued, supported, and motivated to contribute their best.”
His leadership extends to advocating for the LGBTQIA+ community, ensuring that young people of all identities feel seen, heard, and respected. “Integrating the mission of providing a safe space for the LGBTQIA+ community into my work with young people involves a few key approaches,” he explains.
“I focus on creating an environment where all young people feel seen, heard, and respected. This means actively promoting inclusivity in both the language I use and the way I engage with them.” Representation in books and media plays a crucial role in this mission, helping LGBTQIA+ youth feel validated and fostering empathy among all students.
Looking ahead, he has big dreams for the Heatherdale Book Club Buddies. “I’m excited to expand the club’s impact and continuing to cultivate a community where young people feel seen, heard, and empowered through the stories we explore together,” he says. “It’s been an incredible journey, and I can’t wait to see where it goes from here.”
Text: Justine Fortuin / Photograph(s): Gypseenia Lion
