Pupils at Eaglesfield Paddle school near Cockermouth are reaping immeasurable rewards from reading schemes accessed through a pioneering education project.
The initiative, which is called WELL, (Western Excellence in Learning and Leadership), is helping West Cumbrian schools raise standards. It is funded by Sellafield Ltd as part of its Social Impact Multiplied (SiX) programme, and the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.
Dawn Watson, Headteacher at Eaglesfield Paddle, a Church of England primary academy, says she is blown away by the “phenomenal” progress and achievements of her young readers on this scheme.
WELL project funding of £6,500 helped the school access new books, phonic cards and training provided by the Great Teaching Toolkit and the Little Wandle reading scheme.
Now every Key Stage 1 pupil attends three reading squads a week with a focus on helping them develop fluency, expression and comprehension as they build a love of books and stories.
The funding is also supporting the school’s pupils with special educational needs in “Keep Up and Catch Up” groups and one-to-one sessions.
“You cannot underestimate the value WELL and this scheme has had on reading and writing levels,” said Dawn. “I have been particularly impressed by our four and five-year-olds in reception who are rapidly learning how to read in such a short time.”
The scheme is reaping tangible rewards with 93 percent of Year 6 pupils hitting expected and above national expectations in reading in 2023.
Dawn said: “Reading is our passion at Eaglesfield Paddle. It is the key to all subjects and supports good mental health. We have a lovely library where Year 6 pupils help younger children find books they love and read with them.”
For 10-year-old Keeley, the challenge isn’t picking up a book – but putting it down. “When I find a book I love I just can’t stop reading,” she said. “I love how it makes me feel. If I have a sad day, or I am upset about something, reading is my escape. I know it will always lift me.”
Gemma, 10, enjoys helping the younger children discover the joys of reading in her role as school librarian. “Reading together is fun and it’s a great way of making new friends. It can make you feel all sorts of emotions and lead to all sorts of conversations.”
Arlo, aged six, loves reading with Gemma – and can’t wait to open his next book. “I have started Lord of the Rings at home with Mummy,” he said. “Reading makes me happy.”
