A CHARITY that helps children develop essential reading skills is calling for more volunteers across Tameside as local schools seek additional support for pupils.
Schoolreaders, a national group that matches volunteers with primaries, is looking for people who can spare just one or two hours a week to listen to youngsters read.
It works at no cost to schools and helps pupils improve their reading, comprehension and confidence, while encouraging a lifelong love of books.
Many across Tameside are currently waiting for additional volunteers, making recruitment a key priority during the National Year of Reading.
One local volunteer helping to make a difference is Susan Pounder, 66, from Ashton-under-Lyne.
A retired specialist speech and language therapist who worked in schools for the NHS, she has been volunteering with Schoolreaders for the past year at a primary school close to her home.
She first discovered the charity after seeing a leaflet in her local library and was inspired to get involved because she missed working with children.
“I wanted to get back to working with children,” she said. “I missed their amazing energy and take on life.”
Each week, Susan spends time listening to about eight children aged between five and seven-years-old read. They are at different stages of their reading journey, with some just beginning to and others already fluent.
And the experience has shown her how much difference a small commitment can make.
“The children are just so keen to come and read when I arrive,” she added. “I’ve seen children who were initially quite shy and quiet really come out of their shells. It’s lovely to see how they grow in confidence over time.”
“It’s reminded me that small things, like giving a couple of hours a week, can really make a difference.
“For me, it is a really good end to the week, and I always look forward to it.
“I would recommend volunteering as a Schoolreader to anyone with a little patience, time and a love of reading to share.”
As well as helping children develop literacy skills, Schoolreaders volunteers often become a familiar and trusted part of school life.
“The children tell me about their lives, their pets and their families,” Susan continued. “I really feel part of the team of adults they know and trust.”
Schoolreaders says volunteers do not need a background in education to get involved. Anyone with patience, enthusiasm and a love of reading can make a valuable contribution.
With more schools across Tameside requesting support, the charity hopes more local residents will step forward to help children build the reading skills that can have a lasting impact on their education and future opportunities.
To find out more about becoming a Schoolreaders volunteer, visit www.schoolreaders.org/volunteer.