I volunteered to get involved with this great project in January and attended the 1.5 hours training to learn more in February. It took a few weeks for a CRB check to come through and in the meantime I arranged to visit the school that I had been linked with to meet the head teacher and have a look round. I have now visited my school over 4 of my lunchtimes and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Not only is it great to listen and encourage young readers but it is rewarding to see them grow in confidence and I look forward to chatting with them for a few minutes to find out what’s happening in their lives. From a work perspective because the aim of Rotherham MBC is to provide quality services to our community, for me as an officer who is not directly public facing it is good to get a reality check on what is happening within our more needy neighbourhoods and communities. It is also encouraging to see first hand the wonderful work that is being done within our schools, there is so much more varied activity which just wasn’t around when my children were at school.
I would encourage anyone who is thinking of getting involved with reader mentoring to give it a go, its rewarding for us as well as the children.
