A national children’s charity is calling on people in Ashton-under-Lyne and surrounding areas to volunteer their time to help children develop their reading skills.
Coram Beanstalk, which has more than 50 years’ experience supporting children to become confident and independent readers, is looking for new reading helpers to work with children in local schools.
The charity says many children can struggle with reading because they do not have access to regular one-to-one support, books which reflect their interests or an adult at home who can encourage their reading.
Its volunteers provide children with dedicated time and support, helping them develop their confidence and discover the enjoyment of books.
Reading helpers typically work with around three children for between 20 and 30 minutes at least once a week.
The sessions are designed to follow each child’s pace, with volunteers building relationships with the children while encouraging them to read, explore different books and develop essential skills.
Volunteers do not need to have previous teaching experience, with Coram Beanstalk providing training, ongoing support and a wider community of reading helpers.
Partner schools also receive a starter pack of Beanstalk Brilliant Books, giving volunteers access to a wide range of engaging books to help children discover their interests and develop their identity as readers.
Amy Lewis, Head of Coram Beanstalk, said: “Evidence shows that when children not only can read but choose to read, they not only achieve more academically across the whole curriculum, but they also benefit from improved well-being and go on to experience greater success in life,” she said.
“And that’s where Coram Beanstalk reading helpers can really make a difference.
“We need to fill vacancies in settings locally, especially in the Ashton-under-Lyne area, and we can only reach more children by recruiting new reading helpers.
“Each volunteer will receive training and will support on average three children for 20-30 minutes, at least once a week.
“It really is such a fulfilling and meaningful volunteering role which transforms lives, so please get in touch today if you think you can help.”
One existing reading helper said the role had become one of the most meaningful things they had ever done.
They said: “I had no idea how much it would come to mean to me, literally the best thing I have ever done (after a long career with various ‘good causes’).
“I think the children are truly amazing, and I look forward to seeing them each week.
“It’s always such a joy to see them grow in confidence and discover that books can be fun and enjoyable!”
Coram Beanstalk says it wants to reach more children who need support with reading but needs more volunteers to make this possible.
Anyone interested in becoming a reading helper at a local school can find out more at www.corambeanstalk.org.uk or by calling 020 7729 4087.