Frequently asked questions

If you have a question which isn't answered below then please contact us.

What are the Books For Schools key dates?

January  2009 - First stage Books for Schools tokens published in-paper

Mid April - Summer book catalogue is sent to schools

April 30, 2009 - Deadline for spring book orders

April 19 - July 11, 2009 - Second stage tokens appear in-paper

September 2009 - Third book catalogue is sent to schools

September 13 - December 6, 2009 - Third stage tokens appear in-paper

How many books are on the third book list?
There are 200 books on the third BFS book list, which is organised into the following age ranges:
Age 3 – 7
Age 7 – 9
Age 9 – 11
Age 11 – 14
Reference

Can I send in my tokens and order form at any time?
No. For the third part of the scheme, tokens will be printed in The Times and The Sunday Times from September 13 to December 6, 2009. To maximise the number of books your school can receive, all tokens and your book order form for the third part of the scheme should be sent in together before the closing date of December 18, 2009.

How do I register for the scheme?
Registration for this term is now closed.

When are the tokens available in The Times and The Sunday Times?
The third set of tokens will appear in The Times and The Sunday Times every day from September 13 to December 6, 2009. Four tokens will be printed in The Sunday Times, three tokens will be printed on Saturday in The Times and one token will be printed in The Times each day from Monday to Friday.  

What kind of books are in the book catalogue?
The catalogue contains 200 titles selected by Times Newspapers and Scholastic Book Clubs. For guidance, it is divided into four age ranges: Age 3 – 7; Age 7 – 9; Age 9 – 11; Age 11 – 14 as well as including a Reference section. There is a huge variety of books on offer, including Monkey Puzzle by Julia Donaldson in the 3-7 age range, Matilda by Roald Dahl in the 7 – 9 age range, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C S Lewis in the 9 – 11 age range and Cirque du Freak by Darren Shan in the 11 – 14 age range.  Please go to Book catalogue to view the complete book list.

When will my books be delivered?
Your free books will be delivered to your school within 28 days of the receipt of an official Books for Schools order form and your tokens, subject to availability. Where the 28th day falls within school holidays, books will be delivered within two weeks of the start of the following term.

Can tokens from phase 1, 2 or 3 be used in later phases?
No.

Can I change my book order once I have sent it in?
Unfortunately, no changes can be made to an order once it has been placed.

What happens if a book I order is not available?
In the unlikely event that a book is out of stock, we will substitute an alternative or similar product of comparable value and equivalent to the book or resource claimed.

Where do I need to send my tokens and order form?
Please send all tokens and your book order form in a jiffy bag to the following address:
Books For Schools Book Orders, FREEPOST ANG2768, Colchester, CO2 8BR

What is the best way of sending in my tokens?
Ideally tokens should be put into bundles of 100 and tied with a rubber band. The tokens should be then sent along with your Books for Schools book order form. The Times and The Sunday Times cannot be held responsible for any lost tokens.

Can I order books online?
No. The only way to order your free books is by downloading the form from the website.

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