| According to School Standards Minister, Stephen Byers "Literacy is crucial - it opens the door to success across all other subject areas." Outlining his plans for a "Literacy revolution", Mr. Byers made recommendations about how to get parents, schools and LEAs involved in the drive to raise standards. Neil McLelland of the National Literacy Trust agrees: "There needs to be a concerted effort to involve parents and families more closely in literacy development."
This necessary expansion in Family Literacy has got off to a very good start in Birmingham over the last 12 months with the extra boost from the Core Skills Partnership. Representatives of various departments meet regularly to jointly plan activity and support, and ensure a coherent, strategic approach in order to make the most of everyone's efforts. As well as benefiting from Bookstart and Pre-school Worker developments through health centres, parents have increasing opportunities for going into school to share informal workshops with their children and their teachers. More than 1,200 parents participated during the first year. A further 50 schools will be involved before Christmas. |
The national Basic Skills Agency have developed a more intensive programme for particular parents and children. The Core Skills Development Partnership are increasing the availability of these opportunities. Cotteridge School, Stirchley Library and Selly Oak Adult Education recently pioneered this course very successfully and achieved a 100% retention rate. Anglesey, Colmers Farm Junior and Ward End Primary Schools have been preparing to take off with their courses in the Autumn. Already Anglesey and Four Dwellings Junior Schools have attracted around 60% of their Year 3 parents into sessions in school.
What parents said:
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