A NATIONAL reading charity has issued an appeal for volunteers to work primary schools around Keighley.

Coram Beanstalk trains reading helpers and places them in schools to support children aged five to 11 through weekly sessions.

Their aim is that over one academic year the children will learn to read well, not just through recognising the words but by enjoying sharing books together, chatting about them and developing deeper understanding of the story.

The charity has helper vacancies in Keighley and surrounding areas.

Ginny Lunn, managing director of Coram Beanstalk, said volunteers encourage, motivated and supported children in a way that helped them feel positive about their reading and set them up for success.

She said: "Our reading helpers work with children who, for a variety of reasons, don’t feel confident around books and would benefit from weekly sessions outside of the classroom with someone who can help ‘open the door’ to reading.

"Our vision is to ensure that all children have the opportunity to become confident and able readers and we know that the first step to achieving this is through encouraging a love of books at an early age."

One reading helper said: "I have thoroughly enjoyed being part of Coram Beanstalk and the priceless opportunity it has given very reluctant readers, who lack of confidence and self-esteem in reading, to progress into confident independent readers.

"It is absolutely fantastic to see the children laughing, intrigued and engaged. Opening their minds to new adventures and experiences, one book at a time!”

Anyone wishing to find out more about the programmes available to schools, or to apply as a volunteer in a school or early years setting, should visit orambeanstalk.org.uk or call 020 7729 4087.