London pupils and the IOE celebrate reading at the launch of Read Aloud month

The children were visited by superheroes to signal the start of Read Aloud, a month which is designed to celebrate reading. As part of Read Aloud, schools, teachers and children are hosting events and activities throughout March.

The activity is designed by the IOE’s Reading Recovery programme, a literacy programme designed for the lowest achieving children aged around six that enables them to reach age-expected levels within 20 weeks.

The launch event saw children and IOE staff talking about their favourite books, how reading helps them write and how reading can give you superpowers. The children then read their favourite books to adults dressed as superheroes.

Dr Sue Bodman, National Leader, Reading Recovery, said: “Reading is fundamental to future educational progress as well as being a tool for building empathy and critical thinking and so it was rewarding to witness some pupils receiving Reading Recovery sharing their newly found superpower with such confidence and enjoyment.”

Supporters of Reading Recovery include footballer Gareth Bale, actress Gillian Anderson and author Pie Corbett, among others.

The power of reading

Supporters also shared their thoughts on the power of reading:

"Reading is an essential aspect of my professional life, but there is nothing better than relaxing whilst reading a gripping novel."

Professor Michael Arthur, President & Provost of UCL 

"Reading to and with my children when they were younger were some of the most enjoyable times as a parent; Watership Down was a particular favourite in my household."

Professor Becky Francis, Director, UCL Institute of Education

"Reading gives me the gift of special time with my children."

Gareth Bale, Professional Football Player, Wales and Real Madrid, Reading Recovery Champion

"Being able to read enables choices and opens up the world for us."

Gillian Anderson OBE, Actress, Writer and Producer, Reading Recovery Champion

Media contact

Rowan Walker, UCL Media Relations
T: +44 (0)20 3108 8515 / +44 (0)7769 141 006
E: rowan.walker@ucl.ac.uk

Links

• Reading Recovery 
• International Literacy Centre
• Department of Learning and Leadership
• View Dr Sue Bodman's research profile

Images

• Sarah-Jane Gregori, UCL Institute of Education