Bristol Energy staff have been discovering their inner book worm whilst volunteering at Millpond Primary in Easton.
Over the past 4 months, we’ve been helping children improve their literacy skills as part of Forever Sport’s ‘Reading Stars’ programme.
Forever Sport is run by Bristol Sport, and supports children on the sports field and in the classroom.
Our volunteers have been spending an hour a week reading with 9 and 10 year olds, supporting 40 of them so far.
“I’ve been reading with Ben,” said Rosemary from Millpond Primary. “He reads with lots of kids in my class, he’s very helpful and kind, and he helps me to understand difficult words.”
“I think Rosemary can read even better than I can!” said Bristol Energy's HR Advisor, Ben, who's been volunteering on the programme. “It’s great to see improvement in their reading after just a few weeks and how enthusiastic the children are about books. It surprised me, as there are so many distractions these days.”
Seeing the children’s confidence build week upon week has been an incredibly rewarding experience for Bristol Energy staff.
“Reading with the same children has allowed us to establish supportive relationships,” said Georgina – part of Bristol Energy’s people team. “Reading Starts gives the children a chance to practice their reading and build their confidence.”
The scheme kicked off last November and has been incredibly successful, with more and more Bristol Energy staff signing up to volunteer. But the scheme offers staff and children a lot more than just reading practice…
“I love speaking to them about what they’ve been up to each week and hearing the excitement in their voices when they talk about swimming, football or unicorns,” said Georgina.
Reading Stars comes as part of Bristol Energy’s partnership with the fantastic Forever Sport programme, helping children to discover sport and receive quality coaching from the best in the business.
“Linking up with Bristol Energy to provide reading support has been fantastic for the children’s confidence,” said Forever Sport coach Phill Morgan. “Reading with the Bristol Energy staff is the highlight of the week for these children.”
Well, we won’t let them down!
“You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read with a child” – Dr Seuss
- We donate to Forever Sport every time someone switches using the code FORSPORT.
- Or if your child’s school is already signed up to the Forever Sport scheme, you can switch and receive a free half term of after school sports coaching.