Story: Zaida Bibi
If you walk into Whiteways School on a Wednesday or Thursday morning, you will experience a happy and inviting atmosphere with children and parents sharing and enjoying books. Sue Alldred, the English as an Additional Language Coordinator, welcomes all parents and Y6 volunteers help them sign in and choose books.
Sue tells us,
“The Reading Morning shows parents and children that the school values the many languages spoken. Parents who can’t read English can share a book in Urdu or Arabic with their child. This gives children the confidence to read and speak their home languages. We have bilingual books in over 20 languages.”
Staff from other schools across the city have visited the project as an example of good practice. Ms Zia, a Year 3 teacher said:
“We have a lot of Dads coming in which is great.”
There is also an added incentive for the children: every four times the children attend the project with their parents they are able to choose a free book. It provides a great opportunity for the children to share these books at home. Sue adds;
“Research shows that if you bridge the gap between home and school, it can really positively affect the progress of the children. The school rates the Reading Project highly and provides special funding for the free books.”
Waheeda Younis, who has children in Years 3 and 5 says:
“Since the Reading Project has started I have made a concerted effort to attend. I know my daughter really enjoys our time together and her confidence has grown. She reads really well now. The project has been a real success”.
Alena Hussain in Year 4 comments:
“I really enjoy the time with my mum. It is our special time together. I know how proud she is of me when I read”.
Maria aged 9 says:
“Coming to the Reading Project every week has helped me read better.”
Safia, aged 9 tells us:
“It is a good experience. It helps me with my reading. I can read in two languages, it helps me with my own language at home.”
Farzana, Safia’s Aunty comments:
“It is an opportunity for both parents and children to learn something together.”
Sue is already looking forward to next year and developing the new electronic library.