Call for Schoolreaders volunteers to support children’s reading journey in Newark and Bingham schools

A charity dedicated to improving children’s literacy has launched an appeal for more volunteers.

Schoolreaders volunteers help make a difference to children’s lives by enabling them to unlock the doors to a world of reading.

The volunteers provide vital reading support to primary school children who need it the most — and more support is needed in two Newark schools and one in Bingham.

Currently, one in four children are leaving primary school each year unable to read to the expected standard, and this means they can’t fully access their secondary education, which will have life-long consequences.

By placing reading volunteers into primary schools, children can explore books and develop a love of reading increasing their opportunities in later life.

Schoolreaders recruits and places volunteers into primary schools to provide regular one-to-one reading support and the need for Schoolreaders volunteers has never been greater.

Nationally there are currently more than 27,000 children receiving support from a Schoolreaders volunteer each week in term time.

Volunteers can dedicate just an hour a week, during which time they can make a significant impact on a child’s reading ability, boost their confidence and light the path to a brighter future.

“I love volunteering with Schoolreaders, and it is incredibly rewarding to see the impact we have on the children.” said Sebastian, a current volunteer in Derbyshire.

“I have focused quite a bit of my time with reception and year one children who are finding reading more difficult. One little boy has really improved, and it has been very rewarding to see him enjoy reading now and feeling more confident.”

Schoolreaders matches volunteers with schools based on their location and availability. The commitment is just one hour a week during term time for a year, making it an ideal opportunity for retirees, or those who work part-time or flexibly.

Find out more and apply to become a volunteer at www.Schoolreaders.org/volunteer.

No qualifications are required, applications are open to anyone with a good grasp of English, and a little time to spare.