Primary Schools Launch Book Scheme Aimed At Enabling Pupil’s Love For Reading To Grow

A multi-academy trust has launched a new book service in its Primary schools to help make every child a reader, and boost literacy rates.

In its 10 primary schools, Outwood Grange Academies Trust, has launched a new scheme where pupils, and parents, are invited to donate books to the school. From these donated books, the pupils are free to take home whichever they wish with the intention of developing their reading.

The purpose of the scheme is to ensure every child has the opportunity to own a book, read, and develop a love for reading.

Lee Wilson, Chief Executive Principal of Outwood Primary schools, said: “We were excited to launch this scheme and I am thrilled by the reception it has received across the primary schools in the Outwood family.

“At Outwood Grange Academies Trust, we believe that every child should be a reader, no matter what it takes. The importance of reading cannot be overestimated, it is a vital life skill.

“We hope that by introducing our new scheme all pupils are able to own a book and have the chance to read a book when not in school.

“By everyone doing what they can and donating any unused books they may have, all pupils will be able to have a book at home. The potential is that the same book can inspire a different student, perhaps more than once, and help them develop their reading.”

In each of the 10 primary schools sponsored by Outwood Grange Academies Trust, a book collection point has been established. The scheme works by pupils, and parents, donating any unused books they may have at home. These books can then be taken by another pupil, with no obligation to return the book.

Research conducted by the National Literacy Trust found that one in eleven children in the UK say they do not have a book of their own.

Coupled with the fact that the same research showed that children who own a book are 15 times more likely to read above the level expected for their age, compared to those who don’t, the Trust hopes to scheme can improve literacy rates across the schools.

One supportive parent of the Trust’s new book scheme, Mrs Fielding, whose daughter Ruby attends Outwood Primary Academy Greystone in Ripon, said: “When I was told about the new book scheme, I was really impressed with the idea.

“As a parent, it enabled me to be able to put some of our books we no longer read to good use, while it allows the child to pick up a book that’s been donated that they want to read. It is great knowing that the books donated are going to be discovered all over again, and be helpful to another child’s development.”

Opened in January 2018 Outwood Primary Academy Greystone, formerly Greystone Community Primary School, is one of two schools sponsored by the Trust in Ripon, the other being Outwood Academy Ripon.

The Trust is also appealing to local businesses, publishers and authors, to help with the scheme and donate any books they are able to.

Lee added: “We firmly believe in supporting all students and I believe our book recycling scheme is evidence of this. Research has shown that a good reading level can have a great effect on other skills, such as writing, so supporting children’s ability to read can lead to further improvements in other areas.

“By putting students first, we believe we can continue to raise standards and help transform lives.”