Shadow Judging Program
The CBCA Shadow Judging Program is an important way school libraries, libraries and teachers can support students in increasing their engagement with a wider range of Australian literature. Students participating in the program feel a sense of agency as they are supported to critically evaluate the literary merit of books against established CBCA judging criteria.
CBCA Shadow Judging begins when the CBCA Shortlists are announced.
​After you register on the Shadow Judging website you will have access to the wide range of resources.
Teen reading for pleasure is declining.
We want to understand more.
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In 2026, CBCA is partnering with the University of Sydney to research the impact of our Shadow Judging program on Older Readers.
We are seeking 20 passionate facilitators across Australia to take part in this national research project.
✔ Full set of Older Readers Shortlisted books
✔ Scholarship to the Illuminating Australian Children’s Literature course
✔ Sponsored Shadow Judging registration
EOIs close Sunday 15 March.
Be part of the evidence that shapes the future of teen reading.
Find out more: https://bit.ly/4al1mQn
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Connecting with our SA Shadow Judges
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Cowell Area School
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‘I’ve enjoyed Shadow Judging this year and reading books I wouldn’t usually pick up. It’s really helped me get back into reading, which I enjoy. It was sometimes challenging to read books within the time frame. It made me think why I liked the book. I feel like that would help me choose what I want to read in the future. I would definitely do this again next year.’ Emmersyn Yr 8 – Young Readers
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‘I’ve enjoyed shadow judging. I like doing the picture books and working out what is the purpose to the stories. Not everyone has to like what you like, but it’s good to listen to people’s opinions about each book. I would recommend other schools to do shadow judging and hope we can do it next year.’ Jaime Yr 5 – Picture Books
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