West Lakes Academy students take part in reading buddy scheme

Sixth form students have started to visit several local primary schools to take part in reading buddy sessions.

Reading with youngsters at Thornhill Primary School (Image: Submitted)

The students have shared stories, their love of books and relaxed together enjoying their favourite books. Sixth formers have engaged in training activities to support readers and have developed their leadership skills. 

The Sixth formers involved have expressed how much they have enjoyed their time with their younger reading partners. 

Sixth formers Leah and Mischa said: "It's been really lovely supporting younger students and seeing how excited they are to share their reading achievements."

Amber, another student, said: "This has been a lovely opportunity to volunteer and share my love of reading." 

All the students involved are excited to take part in further visits and create a strong reading partnership. 

A sixth form student from West Lakes Academy shares a book with a child from Bookwell Primary School in Egremont (Image: Submitted)

Primary schools visited so far include Arlecdon, Bookwell, Thornhill and St Bridget’s, and staff have all expressed how "lovely" the visits have been. They have commended the attitudes and care the students have shown in working with younger children.

Associate Principal at West Lakes Academy, Kim Beckwith said: "It has been a real joy to see how many of our older students were eager to give up their time and work with others.  

Reading together at Bookwell Primary School (Image: Submitted)

"We really value the opportunities for leadership, volunteering, and most of all sharing a love of reading at WLA. Our wonderful librarians have supported these visits and have commented that all the students involved from nursery age to our oldest Year 13s have been a credit to their schools."