By KLTV Newsdesk –

Huddersfield-based Schoolreaders aims to tackle literacy gaps by recruiting new volunteers across West Yorkshire

One in four children leaves primary school unable to read to the expected level, but Huddersfield charity Schoolreaders is working to change that.

The organisation runs weekly reading sessions for more than 33,000 children across England, pairing over 3,300 volunteers with primary schools to boost literacy and confidence.

Volunteers Make a Measurable Impact on Children’s Learning

Research conducted by Schoolreaders shows that 94% of children increased their reading confidence after participating in volunteer-led sessions.

Additionally, 72% of children benefited from spending time with a positive role model through the programme.

Targeted Support for Disadvantaged Children in West Yorkshire

Schoolreaders is now expanding its volunteer base in the region, covering Halifax, Huddersfield, Hebden Bridge and Wakefield.

Using advanced software, the charity carefully matches volunteers to schools where children face the greatest educational challenges, aiming to close attainment gaps and inspire a lifelong love of reading.

Volunteer Story: Monica Murphy’s Passion for Literacy

Monica Murphy, a former university lecturer and NHS worker from Huddersfield, has been a committed Schoolreaders volunteer for over two years.

She initially discovered the charity through a local advert shared during choir practice and was motivated by her lifelong passion for reading.

“Literacy is a life skill,” Monica explained. “It feels good to be part of a child’s educational journey and to encourage their enthusiasm for reading.”

What began as a plan to volunteer for three hours a week quickly grew into a full school day commitment.

Monica said, “I was with the more advanced readers who only read with an adult once a week, but I now read with children of all abilities.”

She praised the welcoming and collaborative environment at the school, where her skills and ideas were valued.

“I’ve been on day trips with classes,” Monica added, “and I even won a large bar of chocolate in the staff Christmas quiz, so I certainly feel part of the team!”

Volunteering Benefits Both Children and Volunteers

Monica’s experience reflects the wider impact of Schoolreaders’ work. An impressive 99.7% of volunteers would recommend the charity to others, and 99% of schools reported that volunteers helped enhance their reading culture.

If valued financially, the hours contributed by volunteers in 2023/24 alone would be worth at least £2,575,757 at the National Living Wage rate.

Since its founding in 2013, the total estimated value of volunteer time is nearly £8 million.

Join the Cause: Spare an Hour to Make a Difference

Schoolreaders is urging more people to follow Monica’s example.

Volunteers need only spare an hour a week and receive full training and guidance, including safeguarding and reading support best practice.

To find out more or to sign up, visit www.Schoolreaders.org/volunteer. Help change a child’s life this Volunteers’ Week through the power of reading.