Curriculum Picks: Waterstones

Best for: KS2 / KS3 – ages 8 and above

All seven Harry Potter books in one classic paperback box set – The Philosopher’s Stone, The Chamber of Secrets, The Prisoner of Azkaban, The Goblet of Fire, The Order of the Phoenix, The Half-Blood Prince and The Deathly Hallows. One of the most searched-for children’s book sets in the UK and consistently one of the top gifts for primary and secondary school readers. If a child hasn’t yet discovered Harry Potter, this is where to start.

Buy from Waterstones – £70 →

Best for: KS2 – ages 7-11 | A premium gift edition

The first three Harry Potter books reimagined as stunning illustrated editions by MinaLima, the design studio behind the graphics of the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts films. Each page features full-colour artwork and interactive elements. This is the definitive gift edition for Harry Potter fans – a collector’s set that will be treasured for life. Supports KS2 English reading for pleasure and literary appreciation.

Buy from Waterstones – £120 →

Best for: KS3 / KS4 – ages 13 and above

All four books in Tolkien’s Middle-earth saga in a premium illustrated boxed set with stunning artwork by Alan Lee, the artist behind the original film concept designs. Includes The Hobbit and the complete Lord of the Rings trilogy. One of the most sought-after book box sets for teenage readers and a genuinely beautiful gift. Supports KS3 and KS4 English – epic fantasy, world-building and classic literature.

Buy from Waterstones – £120 →

Best for: KS2 / KS3 – ages 8-13

All seven Chronicles of Narnia stories by C.S. Lewis in a beautiful box set. From The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe to The Last Battle, this is one of the most enduring fantasy series in children’s literature – full of allegory, adventure and rich storytelling that rewards re-reading at every age. A top gift for KS2 and KS3 readers and a perennial bestseller at Waterstones.

Buy from Waterstones – £55.93 →

Best for: KS2 / KS3 – ages 10+ | Science

One of the most celebrated board games of the last decade, Wingspan is a card-driven engine-building game in which players attract birds to their wildlife preserves. Every bird card features real species data – habitat, diet, egg capacity and wingspan – making it genuinely educational alongside being deeply satisfying to play. A brilliant gift for science-minded children interested in birds, habitats and ecosystems. For 1-5 players, ages 10+.

Buy from Waterstones – £59.99 →

Best for: KS2 / KS3 – ages 10+ | Strategy

A beautifully produced worker placement and card game set in the enchanting Valley of Everdell, where woodland creatures build a thriving city across the seasons. With stunning artwork and deep but accessible strategic gameplay, Everdell is consistently rated among the best board games for families and older children. A standout gift for any child who loves strategy games or beautiful game design. For 1-4 players, ages 10+.

Buy from Waterstones – £59.99 →

Best for: KS3 / KS4 – ages 13 and above | Science

Three landmark books by Sir David Attenborough in a beautiful boxed set. Authoritative, accessible and deeply compelling, this is the ideal gift for any teenager with an interest in the natural world, climate science or environmental biology. Attenborough’s writing carries the same authority and wonder as his documentaries, making complex ecological ideas feel urgent and real. A thoughtful and lasting gift for KS3 and KS4 science students.

Buy from Waterstones – £75 →

Best for: EYFS / KS1 – ages 2-7

All of the original Thomas the Tank Engine stories by Rev. W. Awdry collected in one beautiful hardback volume. Featuring Thomas, Gordon, James, Percy and every beloved engine of Sodor, this is the definitive collection for young Thomas fans and a wonderful book to read aloud together. A timeless birthday or Christmas gift for toddlers and early primary children that supports EYFS and KS1 reading for pleasure.

Buy from Waterstones – £50 →