Young people from schools across North Lincolnshire are once again being helped to discover the joy of reading, thanks to the exciting council-funded Scunthorpe United Reading Stars scheme.
Children from 11 primary, junior and secondary schools attended this year’s launch event.
The event kicked off with author Tom Palmer hosting a football quiz alongside North Lincolnshire Council’s Words Count team who brought his book, Ghost Stadium, to life with a reading comprehension task at the Attis Arena (Glanford Park).
Pupils then had the opportunity to interview football players.
Cllr Julie Reed, cabinet member for children, families and communities, said: “The Scunthorpe United Reading Stars scheme is such a fantastic opportunity for everyone involved – particularly for young boys actually as we know engaging them in reading is a tougher challenge.
“In North Lincolnshire we recognise the benefits and impact a love of reading can bring which is why this scheme is so important.
“The whole experience from start to finish, with the involvement of Scunthorpe United as well as such popular authors means youngsters leave with a newfound love of reading.
“Investment like this in so many children’s future is amazing to be part of.”
Throughout the next few months, the pupils from Willoughby Road Primary Academy, Leys Farm Junior School, Berkeley Primary, Frederick Gough, Outwood Academy Brumby, Baysgarth, Huntcliff, Melior Community Academy, The Vale Academy, Winterton Community Academy and St. Bede’s Voluntary Academy can expect a schedule jam-packed with fun and educational football themed activities and events.
Poet Ian Bland will be holding poetry sessions and there will be parent reading workshops as well as visits to the Study United Centre at Attis Arena, Glanford Park where individuals will have a chance to write a script then read it out using an autocue and green screen technology.
Secondary pupils can look forward to visits from Breis the rap artist who will perform some of his amazing poetry and Dan Freedman the author and journalist who will talk about his journalism career with the England football team.
As part of the scheme there’s even a six a side football tournament between the schools, then in July the scheme concludes with a graduation ceremony and celebration.
Scunthorpe United Reading Stars is a partnership between Words Count, the National Literacy Trust and Scunthorpe United FC which aims to encourage reluctant readers through their support.
For more information about the scheme visit the website or email sarah.tipler@northlincs.gov.uk
