Ryde Rotary Club support Rotary's literacy in schools

Following news reports warning of youngsters losing interest with reading, Ryde Rotary Club are reinforcing the message that they are committed to helping young people with all areas of literacy.

Ryde Rotary Club is working with local schools to help pupils enjoy education, particularly in the area of reading and writing. One of the most successful projects is Dictionary for Life which is provides a local primary school with colourful Usbourne dictionarys for free.

Ryde Rotary Club made a presentation to the school at the end of term assembly. Pictured presenting Oakfield School with over 30 of these books in July 2012. Pictured L-R are David Harrison, Ryde Rotary Club President Neil Gurney, Oakfield School headteacher Laura Fairhurst and Dick Minns.

Dictionary for Life with its excellent illustrations, really helps kids to enjoy reading and encourages them to explore the English language without fear.

Over the past year Ryde Rotary Club has also started to spearhead the Duo reading scheme at Ryde Academy. Rotarians and friends of Rotary have helped children by listening to their reading and helping them to understand the language. This support, which is thanks to people giving their time for free, is greatly appreciated by teachers who can then provide support to other pupils. By being able to get into the schools and work directly with young people, Rotary is really helping pupils to get to grips with language and discover the joy of books as well as bringing communities together.

In July 2012 Ryde Rotary Club also provided some medals for the school awards day along with a trophy to be awarded to Ryde Academys literacy Champion.

The sceme has proved so sucessfull there is a demand to expand it further, Ryde Rotary lubs President Neil Gurney is seeking further volunteers and has found that the local Lions Club are also keen to support the initiative.

Rotary is committed to improving the lives of others through hands-on project work and fundraising. Literacy is just one of many areas of interest with clubs across the world connecting with communities and working in partnership with schools and adult learning colleges.

The success of Rotary projects is thanks to the many Rotary members and volunteers who give their time and skills. To ensure that more young people benefit from Rotary's commitment to education, contact your local Rotary club and discover how you can make a world of a difference and make great friends along the way.

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