READER LEADER TRAINING PROGRAMME
A secondary school reading scheme where Year 7 and 8 pupils (Readers) are mentored by students in years 10-12 (Leaders) for 18 weeks or more.
Run by the charity as a one-day training course in schools and fully supported with information packs and resources, the Leaders learn how to be reading mentors to younger pupils. Typically drawn from Years 10-12, Leaders gain knowledge in phonics, the reading process and barriers to learning as well as mastering invaluable mentoring skills. The Readers, usually Years 7 & 8, benefit from improved literacy levels, allowing them to engage more effectively with their studies.
Schools tell us this programme helps embed a culture of reading and we are now rolling out Reader Leader in primary schools for year 6 pupils to mentor year 2 and 3 pupils.
“I have learnt that praising the reader is so important because it makes them feel more confident.”
“I now remember everything about phonics and I think I will be able to help my reader.”
“Reader Leader has motivated me to read more interesting and enjoyable books. It’s a great start to the day.”
“My reader used to stumble over long words but can now break them down and reads more smoothly.”
“It has taken time but I now know my reader’s interests and I help to choose books with the right level of challenge.”
“Asking the Readers comprehension questions, has improved my own comprehension and the way that I think about the books that I read.”