The 'Time to Read' programme, sponsored by ESB, twins fourteen primary schools with local businesses across Ireland to give valuable reading support to 2nd class primary school children, with participant teachers already reporting a significant impact on the children’s comprehension and fluency when reading. The community based programme is part of BITC’s ongoing work to help businesses have a more positive impact on the communities in which they do business.

Volunteers from participating businesses are assigned to a primary school, in their local community where they spend quality time each week reading with 7 and 8 year old children. Businesses that participate in and support the scheme include some of Ireland’s leading companies, including: ESB, KPMG, Irish Life, Elavon, Bord Gáis Networks & Bord Gáis Energy, Ballina Beverages, Citi, Workday, Inishowen Engineering, Abbott Diagnostics, élan, Institute of Technology Blanchardstown, Dulux and Office Depot.

BITCI’s 2012-2013 **‘Time to Read’ Evaluation Report indicates that 99% of participating teachers felt that the programme’s aim of improving fluency and comprehension amongst the children was exceeded. The report further indicated that all the children enjoyed the experience and wanted to read more as a result.

A child participant commenting on their experience in the Time to Read programme stated:
“The Time to Read volunteers make it fun. They gave us a good time and they let me read loads of books. I didn’t really like reading before Time to Read, but now I do. The volunteers are fun to be with.”

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