A group of dedicated runners are fundraising for Learn to Love to Read by running the Royal Parks Half Marathon, which will take place amid London's most famous landmarks on 13th October 2024.

We are a small, local charity offering literacy support to children in Wandsworth. We tackle inequality and illiteracy by supporting primary-age children who are finding learning to read challenging and helping parents support their children's reading journey at home and are committed to our vision of making ‘every child a reader’

Government statistics show that, nationally, 32% of Key Stage 1 and 27% of Key Stage 2 children did not reach the expected standard of reading in summer 2023 testing. In Wandsworth this still means hundreds of children are falling short in reading ability and confidence.

All pupils experienced disruption to their learning during the pandemic and those from more difficult backgrounds are still less likely to succeed. Research shows a proven link between low literacy, poverty and social exclusion. Children eligible for free school meals (FSME) are less likely to read well. These children in turn become adults whose reading skills are inadequate to fully access modern daily life. A recent study has also shown that adults with little or no literacy are more likely to suffer mental health issues such as loneliness, depression and anxiety, as well as being more likely to be unemployed. Early literacy intervention is key to breaking this cycle.

Through our interventions we reduce the number of children whose life opportunities are limited by poor reading. Through regular encouragement and support we will help children progress from careful sounding out of single words to becoming fluent readers able to tackle age-appropriate books.

You can read more about our work and it's impact here:

https://www.learn2love2read.org.uk/pages/5-facts-figures

Please consider sponsoring our runners and supporting Learn to Love to Read. Together, we can make a real difference in the lives of children in our community. Thank you for your support.

#everychildareader