Reading Volunteer Programme

We are promoting a reading volunteer programme within school linking companies/volunteers to primary schools to support pupils and develop their reading skills.

All volunteers will be required to have a DBS check. There will be no cost to the volunteer however we ask that volunteers commit to spending 12 weeks on the programme to offset the cost to school.

The next round of training will be Friday 29th September 1:30-3:00pm. If you would like to sign up or require any further information, please contact the school office, email our Office Manager on anne.wood@brandhall.sandwell.sch.uk or catch Miss Hart on the school gates on a morning.

Details are as follows:

We are asking all volunteers to commit to 12 weeks though this can be extended if mutually beneficial.
The volunteer will need to allocate 60-90 minutes per week to this programme.
The timing of the reading session will be agreed mutually to suit the volunteer and the school.
Each volunteer will have two or three pupils assigned to them and spend 20 minutes with each pupil.
The volunteer will be required to attend a short training session which includes a school induction.

Benefits to the volunteer:

Supports local community projects.
Research has shown there is a positive impact on children's attitude towards reading and it develops their confidence and self esteem which can also be a positive motivator for the volunteer.
Feedback from our previous volunteers is that they feel good about themselves as they are making a positive contribution to individual children. They also enjoy their time at the school and in some cases have learned something to help their own children with reading at home.

What school will do:

Develop strong relationships with volunteers and ensure strong communication is maintained at all times.
Organise a school point of contact for the reading volunteers.
Ensure the school gives a full tour to each volunteer and that each volunteer is fully aware of all relevant school policies.
Allocate a suitable reading area for the pupil and volunteer.
Promote the reading volunteer programme to develop continuity and sustainability within school.
Manage the DBS application in return of a 12 week commitment.

Feedback from Volunteers:

I hope I've made a difference.

Very rewarding, very humbling, glad to be helping children advance themselves.

Self-satisfaction.

I feel very proud.

Feedback from staff:

Pupils reading and levels of progress have improved as well as book levels.

The real success of the programme has been the enthusiasm of the volunteers, they are very professional.

The pupils have really enjoyed the reading. It has also boosted their self-esteem.