Literacy and numeracy

Shortfalls in standards of core subjects such as literacy and numeracy are well publicised, and many employees are keen to volunteer to help make improvements in these areas.

The literacy and numeracy support offered to students differs quite extensively according to whether they are of primary or secondary school age. The organisations mentioned in the  literacy support and numeracy support pages focus mainly on primary school students, yet there are many opportunities to help older students too. Students who reach secondary age and require help with basic literacy and numeracy are likely to lack confidence in their abilities and be more of a challenge to teach. If schools require such help with secondary students, the employer can ask for advice and guidance on how their employees can help.

 

Literacy support

There are three main programmes that offer literacy support: Reading Partners, Volunteer Reading Help and Every Child a Reader

All three offer students the chance to improve their literacy skills by practising with responsible and enthusiastic reading mentors (such as employees in an organisation). Employees would generally need to spend up to one hour each week listening to students reading. They do not need any special skills, but will have to complete a training session and obtain a CRB certificate.

Visit the page on literacy support organisations.

 

Numeracy support

There are two programmes that offer numeracy support: Number Partners and Every Child Counts.

Both programmes offer students the chance to enhance their numeracy skills by playing specially developed number games with responsible adults (such as employees in an organisation). Employees would generally need to spend up to one hour each week helping students with their numeracy. They do not need any special skills, but will have to complete a training session and obtain a CRB certificate.

Visit the page on numeracy support organisations.

 

Benefits for employers

  • The support has a direct impact on the improvement of core skills in the National Curriculum.
  • Employees need only spend up to one hour per week working with students.
  • The internal and external reputation of the organisation can be boosted.

 

Benefits for employees

  • Improve employee morale
  • Develop communication skills

 

Benefits for students

  • Students can enhance their confidence and self-esteem, while being provided with the extra support they need in this area.