Josh Babarinde OBE, MP for Eastbourne, visited Roselands Infants’ School on Friday to see the impact of the Chapter One reading programme in action.
The scheme pairs young pupils with trained volunteers for weekly one-to-one reading sessions, delivered virtually via a secure online platform.
The visit comes ahead of Volunteers’ Week, taking place from June 2 to 8, and highlights the role of corporate volunteerism in addressing literacy challenges.
Emma Bell, CEO of Chapter One, said: “It’s wonderful to welcome Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde to see how Chapter One’s volunteer network transforms children’s futures with one-to-one reading support.
“It’s a simple, powerful idea that allows businesses to make a transformative difference to young lives in the communities that matter to them and their staff.”
The need for support is clear.
According to the National Literacy Trust, 23 per cent of five-year-olds in East Sussex started primary school this year without the early language and communication skills needed to learn and build friendships.
Among disadvantaged children, 40 per cent left primary school unable to read and write well.
During his visit, Mr Babarinde observed Southern Water volunteers in action as they read with pupils remotely through the charity’s Online Reading Volunteers Programme.
He said: “It’s inspiring to see the powerful partnership between businesses, schools, and organisations like Chapter One.
“The corporate volunteers I’ve met today are making a tangible difference to children’s literacy in Eastbourne, where 32.8 per cent of children are living in poverty – higher than the national average and increasing.
“This innovative approach to volunteering not only helps children develop crucial reading skills but also strengthens the connection between businesses and our local community.”
Chapter One currently partners with both Roselands Infants’ School and Oakwood Primary Academy in Eastbourne.
In total, 66 children are paired with volunteers from companies including Arch Insurance International, Heidelberg Materials UK, L&G, MetLife UK, Mott MacDonald, and Southern Water for weekly online sessions throughout the 2024–25 school year.
Carol Wallis, headteacher at Roselands Infants’ School, added: “Chapter One has made a significant difference to our pupils’ reading abilities and confidence.
“Having Josh visit today highlights the importance of community involvement in education and how business volunteers can create lasting change in children’s lives.”
Southern Water education officer Kim Twine said: “Volunteering for Chapter One is incredibly rewarding.
“It’s fantastic to see children gaining confidence week after week, and to know you’re helping them build lifelong skills.”
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