Started in October 2016 completed April 2017
Many young people struggle to read. England is the only country where 16-24 year-olds have lower literacy skills than 55-65 year-olds, out of 24 OECD countries. However, research shows that when we inspire young people to read for pleasure they benefit from far greater opportunities in everyday life, education and employment. Reading Ahead is the gateway to these opportunities.
Because everything changes when we read.
Reading Ahead supports young people by changing their perception of reading, opening up opportunities and building their confidence.
Run through public libraries, further education and sixth form colleges and some secondary schools, Reading Ahead invites participants to pick six reads and record, rate and review them in a diary in order to get a certificate. The programme isn’t just about books – it’s about newspapers, magazines and websites too.
Reading Agency Website
16 completers, also in conjunction with GCSE English groups and Paul Maiden this year. Reviews have all been posted on Moodle as a trial (no written diaries) but this has proved successful and easier access for the students.
Prizes have been kindly donated by Waterstones, Nuneaton and KEC Governors.
Reading Ahead Champion – Emily Rayson
Best Reviews – Shikha Rai
Breadth of Reads – Charlotte Brown
GCSE Award – David Hong
Plus other prize winners.
One student said about this year’s challenge, “I really enjoyed Reading Ahead because it made me read different novels that I felt enhanced my general learning. I would definitely recommend others to do this.”
The Reading Agency are now working in conjunction with local public libraries to promote their Summer Reading Challenge with volunteers from KEC. Rachel Talbot and I are encouraging our students to participate and we have had apply already. Reading Hack is a programme led by young people aged 13 to 24, who do reading activities and volunteering, called hacks, to gain skills and experience.