Literacy support organisations
The three main programmes that offer literacy support are:
Reading Partners - Right to Read
The main programme that offers support is Reading Partners (also known as Right to Read). Reading Partners aims to increase learning through making reading a fun experience for children. It links young readers with responsible and enthusiastic reading mentors (such as employees) who will support and encourage them to become better readers.
What is it?
- Programme enhancing the literacy skills of 7-11 year olds.
- Offers students the chance to practise reading to an adult.
Who is it for?
- Students in need of further support with their literacy skills, who don't currently have sufficient opportunities to practise reading.
What would an employee have to do?
- Visit a school and spend up to an hour a week listening to students reading.
Do employees need to have any special skills?
- No. Employees just need to complete a training session.
Where to start?
- Visit the Reading Partners website.
- Contact the local Education Business Partnership Organisation through the IEBE website to find out about programmes that exist in the local area.
Volunteer Reading Help
Volunteer Reading Help recruits and trains volunteers to work with students aged 6-11 who need extra help with reading.
What is it?
- A charity that inspires children to become confident and literate for life through the sustained support of trained reading helpers.
- Support takes place in school but outside of the classroom.
Who is it for?
- Students aged 6-11 who find reading a challenge and may need extra support and mentoring.
What would an employee have to do?
- Commit for a minimum of one school year.
- Spend three hours a week in school time over two 90-minute sessions
- Complete an application form.
What would an employer have to do?
- Agree to a visit from Volunteer Reading Help.
- Provide financial support.
Do employees need to have any special skills?
- No. Employees just need to complete a training session.
Where to start?
- Visit the Volunteer Reading Help website.
- Contact the local Education Business Partnership Organisation through the IEBE website to find out about programmes that exist in the local area.
Every Child a Reader
Every Child a Reader is a collaboration between charitable trusts, the business sector and Government. It aims to show that, with the right resources, it is possible to overcome the literacy difficulties that blight so many children's lives.
Visit www.everychildareader.org for more details.