Reading program grows to fifth primary school

More primary school students are set to benefit from a volunteer program to help them with their reading, with the initiative launching into a fifth Bunbury school.

Hands Up 4 Kids sends volunteers into classrooms to listen to students read and provide them with more personalised literacy guidance.

Carey Park Primary School is the fifth and latest school to receive a helping hand, joining Maidens Park, Kingston, Parkfield and Australind Primary Schools in the program.

Hands Up 4 Kids regional coordinator Jan Akaczonek said despite a “satisfying response” from volunteers during the recent school holidays, the group still needed more volunteers.

She said the program had benefits for everyone involved, including students, volunteers, the school and the wider community.

There are already 10 volunteers in each of the existing schools, but Ms Akaczonek said that was a number that would be built upon.

She said it was likely the program would be expanded, with two other schools expressing interest in becoming involved.

“We’ve had very positive feedback from other schools, ” she said.

Carey Park Primary School principal Peter Rigden said he was “delighted” to have the program start at the school.

For more information about the program or how to get involved as a volunteer, contact Jan Akaczonek on 9725 8657.