A new reading initiative has been launched to help West Cumbrian schools to 'raise standards'.
The WELL (Western Excellence in Learning and Leadership) project aims to provide support to young readers in the region and improve their reading abilities.
The project is funded by Sellafield Ltd via its Social Impact Multiplied (SiX) programme, in partnership with the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority.
One of the schools reaping WELL's benefits is Eaglesfield Paddle School, near Cockermouth.
Dawn Watson, headteacher of Eaglesfield Paddle, described the progress made by her students as "phenomenal".
With financial aid of £6,500 from the WELL project, the school was able to procure new books, phonic cards and training tools.
Training was also provided by the Great Teaching Toolkit and the Little Wandle reading scheme.
Under this initiative, Key Stage 1 students engage in three reading sessions per week aimed at polishing their fluency, encouraging their expression, and bolstering their comprehension skills.
In addition, the funds cater to the needs of students requiring special education with 'Keep Up and Catch Up' groups and one-to-one sessions.
Ms Watson said: "You cannot underestimate the value WELL and this scheme has had on reading and writing levels.
"I have been particularly impressed by our four and five-year-olds in reception who are rapidly learning how to read in such a short time."
To see Ms Watson discussing the scheme, visit here.
The initiative appears to be bearing significant results, with 93 per cent of Year 6 students attaining and exceeding the national reading expectations in 2023.
Ms Watson said: "Reading is our passion at Eaglesfield Paddle.
"It is the key to all subjects and supports good mental health.
"We have a lovely library where Year 6 pupils help younger children find books they love and read with them."
Keeley, a 10-year-old participating in the project, said: "When I find a book I love I just can’t stop reading.
"I love how it makes me feel.
"If I have a sad day, or I am upset about something, reading is my escape.
"I know it will always lift me."
Gemma, a 10-year-old librarian at the school, said: "Reading together is fun and it’s a great way of making new friends.
"It can make you feel all sorts of emotions and lead to all sorts of conversations."
Six-year-old Arlo, who reads alongside Gemma in the library, said: "I have started Lord of the Rings at home with Mummy.
"Reading makes me happy."
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