Six benefits of becoming a student volunteer with Bookmark

Our Reading Mentor Programme

Students can help children learn to read through our Reading Mentors programme. Through their college or sixth form, 16 – 17 year olds have the opportunity to deliver one-to-one reading sessions to primary school children to support them with their reading – sessions can take place either online or in-person at a local school. 

With more than 1 in 4 children leaving primary school unable to read well, it’s disadvantaged children who are disproportionately affected. That’s why we focus on partnering with primary schools, that we know will benefit the most from the additional support our volunteers can provide for these children. 

Reading can make a transformational difference to a child’s life. We know that literacy isn’t one‑size-fits-all and that there is so much that goes into helping a child discover a love for reading. This is why our Reading Mentors programme exists. Not only do our Reading Mentors help with improving children’s reading, but they are also positive role models. Nurturing an enjoyment of reading means that children read more, gain confidence as readers and, ultimately, improve their reading skills. 

What’s involved? 

Reading Mentors spend one 30-minute session a week for a period of 12 weeks reading stories and playing games with the same child aged between 5 and 11. The students will need to be able to do this for at least one term. 

Why become a Reading Mentor?  

Students can help children gain the reading skills they need to progress at school and in life and show that learning to read can be fun! It’s amazing when you introduce a young reader to a book, comic or poem that they love. – 9 in 10 teachers say that children enjoy reading more after our programme! Students will get to see their young reader progress knowing that they are opening a world of opportunity for their future, whilst also building leadership skills and confidence. 

6 benefits to becoming a reading mentor:

Our Reading Mentor programme also has many benefits for students, helping 16 – 17-year-olds develop skills that can be advantageous when applying for jobs, university or college: 

• Develops key soft skills such as communication, empathy and active listening 
• Builds leadership skills through taking initiative and being reliable 
• Boosts their CVs and personal statements, helping them stand out on UCAS applications – the volunteering can also be counted towards Duke of Edinburgh volunteering hours or International Baccalaureate CAS hours. 
• Demonstrates time management, commitment and an ability to manage multiple responsibilities 
• Improves student wellbeing, confidence and self-esteem 
• Contributes positively to the wider and local community life, showing dedication to making a difference 

We provide training and support that will provide Reading Mentors with transferable skills and equip them for study, work and future volunteering. 

Hear from our Reading Mentor partner school: 

Want to find out more? 

If you’re a college or sixth form, drop us an email at readingmentors@​bookmarkreading.​org to find out more and to arrange a meeting. 

If you’re a parent, a student, or if you have other connections with a college or sixth form that might be interested, then do drop us an email at readingmentors@​bookmarkreading.​org and we can discuss further.