Benjamin Millar
Melton pupils will receive a helping hand developing their literacy skills thanks to a new Vinnies reading club.
Beginning Wednesday, September 1, the Melton Education Program will run as a free reading club from 3.45-5pm Wednesdays throughout the school year.
The Melton Education Program has a focus on the four pillars of literacy – reading, writing, speaking and listening.
It will have the capacity to support 30 pupils from different primary schools in the area and a range of different cultural backgrounds.
St Vincent de Paul Society Victoria education team leader Linette Etheredge said the program works with young people of primary school age to develop a love of reading and to build skills and confidence with literacy.
“The program assists students with literacy and numeracy, as well as general social, emotional and academic support,” she said.
Dr Etheredge said this holistic approach helps to improve overall educational outcomes, but in order to support the pupils more volunteers are urgently needed.
“The Vinnies education team would welcome any volunteer, but in particular we would love to see some of the senior members of our community supporting young people from non-English speaking homes to read books in English,” she said.
Dr Etheredge said no experience is necessary, just a love of reading and a desire to share your love of reading with young people who live in the Melton area.
People interested in volunteering can contact Linette Etheredge via 0437 168 366 or email linette.etheredge@svdp-vic.org.au.
