Oldham literacy project helps kids find their voice - literally

MCRJourno

‘Making it REAL’ (Raising Early Achievement in Literacy), a pioneering early years programme, is giving families across Oldham the tools and confidence to support their children’s reading and writing.

Funded by Oldham Council’s Family Hubs and delivered in partnership with the National Children’s Bureau, the programme currently supports more than 170 children from 22 schools.

At Beever Primary School in St Mary’s, the scheme is making a real impact with headteacher Nicola Edwards saying one child who previously rarely spoke has grown significantly in confidence since joining the programme.

"The greatest thing about this project is that it’s building confidence and communication skills in children and in parents too," she said. "Children get so excited when they know the teachers are coming to their homes - they wait at the windows."

Families take part in regular home visits and fun, literacy-based events throughout the year such as the Ugly Bug Ball where nursery and reception children took part in minibeast-themed literacy activities with their families.

Parent Jasmina Gawkowska has seen huge progress in her four-year-old daughter, Eliana. "It’s brilliant. She’s better behaved, more confident, and is making real progress with her reading and writing. I’d definitely recommend it."

Another parent, Adam Aylward, said his daughter Evie’s speech has improved dramatically. "She was struggling with conversations, but this is bringing it on and massively boosting her confidence. It’s also improving her bond with her teacher."

Children also visit local libraries and bookshops as part of the programme, helping to instil a lifelong love of reading. Learn more about Family Hubs in Oldham here.