Primary School Reading Coaches

Introduct'n

• Brighton North Rotarians commenced the reading coaches program in 2012 and currently has a team of 12 reading coaches.
• The program targets students identified by the school literacy coordinator as needing extra help with reading, particularly reading aloud.
• The program may include students who are dyslexic, suffer from ADHD or those with English as a second language.
• A recent addition to the program is the sponsorship of a story dog who also listens to the students read. Many students open up to these canine companions and look forward to pats and cuddles as part of their session.
• It is a simple project, requires no budget, just volunteer time and a willingness to help young people with reading skills.

Objectives

• Read aloud.
• Have conversations about the deeper meaning behind stories.
• See reading as a lifelong joy.

General Approach

• Rotary administers the program, selects & trains coaches.
• Schools nominate a contact person, select and liaise with students, choose books for coaching sessions.
• Coaching sessions: generally 1 hour per week/fortnight/Rotarian, held in a public area. Rotarians may share coaching time with the students over alternate weeks- if agreed with the school.
• Rotary nominated coaches must comply with Rotary Policies for working with children including WWCC and Rotary Youth Volunteer Declaration.

Key Success Factors

• Commitment of School Principals and nominated school contacts.
• Open communication between Rotary and participating school.
• Respecting confidentiality.
• Promotion of Reading Coaches program in relevant school media.
• Observing improved reading level of participating students.
• Positive feedback from students and parents.

Reference