Time to Read – Inspire a Child to Read
Tuesday, July 16th, 2019
The Time to Read programme provides children in second class, with reading support from a business volunteer over a 20 week period. The programme aims to increase the enjoyment of, and confidence in reading whilst encouraging self-discovery and comprehension for the participating children.
Why do we need Time to Read?
Better literacy leads to better lives. It can break a cycle of disadvantage.
- Ireland is in 17th place in adult literacy out of 24 countries. We can improve this statistic in the future by providing support at primary school level.
- 1 in 6 adults find everyday text eg. bus timetable, medical instructions hard to understand.
Literacy, numeracy and digital skills enable people to reach their full potential, be active and critical participants in society and help address poverty and social exclusion. Further info here.
There are currently 50 business and school Time to Read partnerships across Ireland and we are looking for more business to get involved and support childhood literacy in disadvantaged schools.
Watch Teneo volunteers share their experience of the programme:
As part of the programme, the children, along with their business volunteers and parents visit their local public library and the business workplace. The business and child impact is evaluated by Business in the Community Ireland and a report is provided to each participating business at the conclusion of the programme.
“My colleagues thoroughly enjoyed themselves during the program. There was a great buzz in the offices on our return from the reading session and a sense of “team spirit” between the reading buddies.” – Company Lead
“It was great to be part of the project on behalf of a larger organisation and feel we are making a contribution locally. I really enjoyed my time in the school and seeing how much enjoyment the children were getting out of the sessions.” – Business Volunteer
Business benefits include:
- Increases employee engagement in the business
- Adds diversity to the working day
- Develops staff confidence
- Increases self-esteem and communication skills
- Motivates staff and enhances team work
- Raises company profile in the local community
- Builds partnerships with local schools
Click here to see the Time to Read company brief
Watch Barry O’Leary, Principal of St. Kevin’s NS, Sallynoggin, Dublin share his experience of the Time to Read programme:
We are looking for businesses across Ireland to get involved.
Get in touch for more information: E: sdeegan@bitc.ie | Ph: 01 874 3807
