Beanstalk

Beanstalk is a national literacy charity that recruits,vets, trains and supports volunteers to work in primary schools with children who have fallen behind with their
reading. Our vision is a nation of confident children who can read and grow up to lead successful lives.

Beanstalk reading helpers are given resources to work with children on a one-to-one basis, giving them consistent support to improve reading levels, increase overall confidence and help them gain the vital literacy skills they need to succeed in education, training and employment.

Each Beanstalk reading helper works with three children and sees each child for two 30 minute sessions a week, during term-time, for a whole year. Together, they read, play and talk. With Beanstalk’s support, the child’s approach to learning and enjoying reading is often transformed.

We currently work in 136 schools throughout Kent and Medway, supporting over 600 children, and are always looking for keen volunteers to join us. Volunteers will be required to attend a 2-day mandatory training course, which prepares them for the role of reading helpers – including topics such as safeguarding and child protection, suitable reading materials, the benefits of playing games, primary school environments today, and others.