<<

ANNUAL REVIEW 2010ANNUAL REVIEW 2010 Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

CONTENTS

PREMIER LEAGUE READING STARS (PLRS) Background 4 The TOPPS Sticker Album Competition 26 is an educational project that harnesses the Developments 5 The PLRS Challenge 27 Qualitative feedback from teachers 28 motivational power of football to encourage Project Activity 2010 6 PLRS Challenge case study 29 The annual librarians training day 6 families to enjoy reading. Library activity 7 Media Coverage 30 The recruitment process 13 Qualitative feedback from librarians 13 Examples of public library/ Financial Overview 32 It targets those hard to reach groups in society Premier League club relationships 16 who may not have shown an interest in reading, Total Participants 34 Project Results 17 but who do have a passion for football. Children 17 Letters from the Parents 35 Qualitative feedback from the child participants 20 Adults 21 Qualitative feedback from the adults 24 Conclusion 36

Aims for 2011 39 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

BACKGROUND DEVELOPMENTS

Premier League Reading Stars football. PLRS aims to create lifelong This report covers 2010: the eighth Following successful applications (PLRS) uses the power of football to readers and raise awareness in the year of the project with 72 public in September 2008 to the Football encourage families to read more. community of the resources available libraries registered with the scheme. Foundation, Premier League and to them at local libraries. Around 700 children took part, each Arts Council, the National Literacy PLRS is a national reading initiative accompanied by a parent or carer, Trust received funding to continue that operates through a network of PLRS has been running since 2003 totalling around 1,400 participants Premier League Reading Stars Premier League Clubs, schools and following the creation of a unique on the main scheme. Additional for two further years, up to and public libraries. Each of the 20 Premier partnership between the Premier project work in schools, along with the including December 2010. League teams nominates a Reading League, the Football Foundation, national Premier League Reading Stars Star to discuss his reading habits and the National Literacy Trust, and Arts Challenge, increases the estimated This report covers the second year of recommend his favourite book. These Council England. of participants for 2010 to that funding stream, which included: titles form the Premier League Reading over 60,000. Stars Fixture List. In addition to the PLRS has five intended outcomes: • A continuation of the current project Fixture List, there is also a Subs Bench format: 20 Premier League clubs list of popular children’s titles supplied • Increase access to local libraries, working with local libraries, up to a free to partner libraries. to books and to professional maximum of 72 libraries across the football clubs. scheme. All partner libraries received Each Club then adopts local libraries free books, project merchandise that host reading clubs based on the • Improve attitudes towards all and funding to host an author and book choices of all 20 Premier League aspects of literacy. bookshop visit. Reading Stars. The libraries recruit • The national roll out of the Premier Raise confidence families through school referrals •  to read well, League Reading Stars Challenge for and run a programme of seven to enjoy reading, and to mix the second consecutive year. sessions, focussing on family literacy – with others socially. encouraging parents to read with their • Pilot work of the PLRS curriculum in children. It is designed to use the power • Provide motivation towards to schools. of Premier League Clubs and players reading more and to improve as a motivational tool to encourage one’s reading ability. • A Strategic Overview of the project. children and adults to read. It targets those ‘hard to reach’ groups in society • Change perceptions towards that may not have shown an interest in reading and the stereotypically reading, but who do have a passion for negative view of readers.

4 5 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT ACTIVITY PROJECT ACTIVITY

THE ANNUAL LIBRARIANS LIBRARY ACTIVITY: Over 475 sessions were run as part TRAINING DAY: of PLRS 2010. The seventh annual PLRS training 72 libraries affiliated to the scheme, all aiming to run seven separate 84% day was held on 4 December 2009 sessions as part of their PLRS project delivery, as instructed in the project of libraries ran The Kick Off library-based session at the Premier League offices in Tactics Book. . 80% Libraries that ran six sessions 32% The training day has grown in both size of libraries ran The Second Leg library-based session and significance over the eight years Libraries that ran seven sessions 52% of the project, and now represents a 100% crucial and fundamental part of the Libraries that ran eight or more sessions 16% of libraries ran an Author Visit workshop project preparation. Educating new libraries and clubs on the key delivery 100% processes, the training day also gives an of libraries ran a Bookshop Visit opportunity for experienced librarians to feed back and share best practice. It 68% is also the only time where almost all of libraries ran The Football Fiction workshop project deliverers are in the same room at the same time, allowing the PLRS The focus of the training day is the The training day also provides an staff to outline and emphasise what project instruction kit, known as the excellent opportunity for such 60% aspects of the project must be focussed Tactics Book which explains how to administrative tasks as expenses of libraries ran The Replay library-based session on for the coming year. run each session and each section of claims and library cost claims. the project. The day also includes a 72% Perhaps most importantly, the training presentation from PLRS author and The training day for the 2010 project of libraries received a Club Based Reward session day has proven to generate a great workshop presenter Tom Palmer as well was attended by 60 librarians, with team spirit between PLRS staff and as staff from the Premier League and the remaining affiliated libraries 94% project librarians, creating personal and Football Foundation. being sent the Tactics Book and of libraries received a Premier League Ground Tour positive working relationships which other resources by post. carry through for the rest of the year. 44% of libraries received free match tickets for a Premier League game

6 7 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT ACTIVITY PROJECT ACTIVITY

Libraries affiliated to the scheme included: CLUB LIBRARY LOCAL AUTHORITY AFFILIATED SCHOOLS 12. MAN CITY Barlow Moor Library City Council Barlow Hall Primary CLUB LIBRARY LOCAL AUTHORITY AFFILIATED SCHOOLS Crumpsall Library Manchester City Council St. Ambrose Primary 1. ARSENAL North London Borough of Islington Grafton School, Eburne Road N7 6AR Moss Side Powerhouse Library Manchester City Council Webster Primary Central Library London Borough of Islington St. Mary Magdalene School 13. MAN UTD Swinton Library Salford City Council Irlam Primary, St. Teresa's RC Primary John Barnes London Borough of Islington Hungerford School Irlam Library Salford City Council Irlam Primary, St. Teresa's RC Primary South London Borough of Islington Laycock School St. Mary’s Sacred Heart St. John Evangelist Urmston Trafford Council St. Ann’s RC Primary Mildmay London Borough of Islington St. June/St. Paul’s Stretford Library Trafford Council St. Ann’s RC Primary 2. ASTON VILLA Aston Birmingham City Council Manor Park School 14. Bridgemary County Council Holbrook Primary School Birchfield Birmingham City Council Canterberry School Leigh Park Library Hampshire County Council Trosnant Junior School Kings Norton Birmingham City Council Kings Norton Primary Portsmouth Central 1 Harbour School, Tipner 3. BIRMINGHAM CITY Balsall Heath Birmingham City Council Clifton Primary School Portsmouth Central 2 Portsmouth City Council Arundel Court Junior School Ward End Birmingham City Council Ward End Primary School Paulsgrove Library Portsmouth City Council Somers Park Primary School Centre for Child Birmingham City Council Topcliffe School North End Library Portsmouth City Council St. John's RC Primary School 4. BLACKBURN Darwen Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council St. Peter’s CE Primary, St. Peter's RC Primary, St. James’ CE Primary (Darwen), 15. STOKE CITY Stoke Library Stoke-on-Trent City Council St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Primary School The Redeemer CE Primary Meir Library Stoke-on-Trent City Council Grange Primary School Mill Hill Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council St. Peter's RC Primary City Central Library Stoke-on-Trent City Council Hanley St. Luke's CE(A) Primary School Leyland Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council Woodlea Juniors, Leyland Methodist Primary Schools Longton Library Stoke-on-Trent City Council Gladstone Primary School Rishton Hyndburn Borough Council St. Peter & St. Paul's Primary School Tunstall Library (Dads’ project) Stoke-on-Trent City Council Dads' Group, Tunstall Library 5. BOLTON Heaton Library Bolton City Council Markland Hill Primary School 16. SUNDERLAND Washington Town Centre Library Sunderland City Council Biddick Primary School Breightmet Library Bolton City Council Red Lane Primary School and SS Osmund and Andrews RC Primary School Silksworth Library Sunderland City Council New Silksworth Juniors Highfield Library Bolton City Council Our Lady of Lourdes RC Primary School and Cherry Tree Primary School Shiney Row Library Sunderland City Council Shiney Row Primary School 6. BURNLEY Burnley Central Burnley Borough Council Rosewood Primary School Monkwearmouth Library Sunderland City Council Dame Dorothy Primary and Redby Primary Padiham Burnley Borough Council St. John the Baptist RC Primary School 17. TOTTENHAM Marcus Garvey Haringey Council Green School CE 7. CHELSEA Chelsea London Borough of Kensington & Chelsea Servite, St. Barnabas & St. Philip Coombes Croft Haringey Council Risley Avenue Primary school Pimlico Westminster City Council St. Gabriels Pimary School Wood Green Haringey Council Nightingale Primary Kensington Central London Borough of Kensington & Chelsea St. Barnabas & St. Philip's Servite Hornsey Haringey Council St. Gilda’s Junior School Sands End London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham Langford Primary 18. WEST HAM UTD Green Street London Borough of Newham St. James’ Church of England and Earlham primary schools 8. EVERTON Spellow Liverpool City Council Arnot St. Mary C of E Plaistow London Borough of Newham North Beckton and Ellen Wilkensons primary schools 9. FULHAM Fulham London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham St. Thomas of Caterbury Watney Market Library London Borough of Tower Hamlets Bigland Green Primary School Epsom Surrey County Council Epsom Primary School Chrisp Street Idea Store London Borough of Tower Hamlets Bygrove Primary School, Mayflower Primary School Norwood/Brixton London Borough of Lambeth The Jessop Primary, Christ Church Idea Store Whitechapel London Borough of Tower Hamlets Canon Barnett & Mowlem schools Mitcham Merton Council Bond Primary School Bethnal Green Library London Borough of Tower Hamlets Canon Barnett & Mowlem schools Kingston Library Royal Borough of Kingston Upon Thames St. Johns C of E Primary School 19. WIGAN Leigh Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust Sacred Heart Leigh and Leigh Central 10. HULL CITY Central Library Hull City Council St. Mary Queen of Martyrs RC primary Platt Bridge Wigan Leisure & Culture Trust Holy Family RC School and Platt Bridge Community Ings CSC and Library Hull City Council Bellfield Primary school 20. WOLVES Long Knowle Wolverhampton City Council Wood End Primary School Stadium Library Hull City Council Paisley Primary School Whitmore Reans Library Wolverhampton City Council Dunstall Hill School, Wolverhampton 11. LIVERPOOL Breck Road Liverpool City Council All Saints Catholic Primary Wolverhampton Central Library Wolverhampton City Council Merridale Primary School Crosby Library Sefton Council St. John’s C of E Primary

8 9 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT ACTIVITY PROJECT ACTIVITY

10 out of 20 Premier League clubs 100% of libraries ran an author visit provided a player for their PLRS session. libraries presentation ceremony, representing a 50% success rate. 4% Helena Pielchaty 4% Paul Cookson Player appearances 2010: 4% 4% Bali Rai Other CLUB PLAYER EVENT/PLAYER APPERANCE No OF LIBRARIES ESTIMATED DELIVERY HOURS BY PL CLUB Arsenal Lukasz Fabianski No player appearance in 2010 5 4 Aston Villa Curtis Davies No player appearance in 2010 3 4 Birmingham City Stadium visit 21 April 2010 3 10 Authors Blackburn Rovers Paul Robinson Ground Tour for libraries 22 April 2010 with Paul Robinson 4 6 booked Bolton Wanderers Paul Robinson Reebok Stadium event 27 April 2010 with Paul Robinson in to runs attendance 3 10 sessions Burnley Wade Elliot Ground Tour May 2010 3 4 Chelsea Paulo Ferreira Match tickets for Chelsea v Bolton 13 April 2010 4 4 Everton Leighton Baines appearance at school 5 May 2010 1 8 Fulham Mark Schwarzer No player appearance 2010 5 4 8% 76% Dan Freedman Tom Palmer Hull City Boaz Myhill Ground Tour Visit 19 April 2010, Boaz Myhill in attendance 3 10 Liverpool Yossi Benayoun Reducate Centre Certificate Presentation 2 6 Man City Shay Given Q&A with all three Man City library projects 10 31 March 2010 3 19 Man Utd Gary Neville Certificate presentation Sept 2010 4 4 The average number of recruits per PLRS project Portsmouth David James David James presentation event Park 26 April 2010 6 10 was 19 with an average of 16 people attending all Stoke City Danny Higginbotham No player appearance 2010 5 6 sessions across the whole project Sunderland Andy Reid Ground Tour at with Andy Reid in attendance 28 March 2010 4 10 Tottenham Ground Tour June 2010 4 4 38 West Ham Jonathan Spector Multi Sports event at Upton Park with Jonathan Spector On average, each library group purchased 38 books 29 April 2010 6 10 between them, at an average of 2.2 books per Wigan Emmerson Boyce Stadium Visit with Emmerson Boyce for both Wigan library participant projects March 2010 2 8 Wolves Marcus Hahnemann Q&A event 5 May 2010 3 10 7&4 On average, each child borrowed 7 books from their library during the project. On average, each adult borrowed 4 books from their library during the project

10 11 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT ACTIVITY PROJECT ACTIVITY

2010 Most Popular Titles: The most popular The recruitment process: “We contacted our local school. We met Qualitative feedback 4 children’s title from with the Year 4 teacher who selected ten from the librarians: On average, each project library recruited 4 Each year, the reading list from the 2010 PLRS list Through a variety of ways, PLRS children who we thought could benefit new members from their Reading Stars groups, the Premier League Reading Stars was Fantastic Mr aims to target those who are from the scheme.” “PLRS has been a really positive representing 21% of their project generates huge interest amongst Fox by Roald Dahl, disinterested in reading but who do experience for all the groups. The children both the media and the project selected by Danny have a passion for football. “We asked the school involved to choose were great and I was really pleased at 96% participants. Every season the Higginbotham children who they thought would the enthusiasm from the parents who of libraries felt that the project had strengthened participants are asked to vote for (Stoke City). Feedback from our project librarians benefit most from the sessions.” are so busy but still found time to come their relationship with local schools, with 72% their favourite title from the list... regarding recruitment included: to the sessions. Many have commented “First we contacted the school and of libraries feeling that their relationship with The most popular on the fact that it has been good to have “We liaised with the literacy coordinator arranged a meeting. We proposed that their local Premier League club had also been adults’ title from the time together with their children, that from a local school, who selected the the headmaster and teachers should strengthened 2010 PLRS list was they have now started reading and also The Da Vinci Code by families to take part.” decide who would benefit the most but that they feel more confident generally. also asked for a couple of keen readers 84% Dan Brown, selected “We spoke with the local school and the Thanks PLRS – we’ve put a lot of hard by Shay Given in the group to support the other young work in, but it’s been well worth it!” of librarians felt that reluctant readers in their deputy head advised me of the team’s people.” group had been inspired to try one of the books (Manchester City). choice.” “It brought together mums, dads, on the reading list because they titles had been grandparents and the children. The selected by footballers children were excited that a family member was there to share it with them. Two of the children thought one of the books they picked from the PLRS stock was the best read of their lives. And two of the adults said that they had got back into reading again – after years of not picking up a book. It was a great success. Many, Many thanks.”

12 13 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT ACTIVITY PROJECT ACTIVITY

“Generally really positive feedback “Billy (a self-confessed book hater) which affect her behaviour. She calmed “For one family English was a second “At least four of my families had english from children, parents, school and joined the library; Jason, a rather hyper- down and after one particular session, language and attending PLRS supported as a second language and as the weeks really good attendance, especially from active boy, became more involved and wrote a spontaneous letter to Sue and the child and the parents’ reading skills went on it was great to see the parents parents. I felt it was something children attentive as the sessions progressed.” I thanking us for running the Reading and raised awareness of community come out of their shells and take part, and parents would remember for a Stars sessions and telling us how much support with services such as the each week we had an ice breaker game long time. Parents also mentioned how she loved it.” public library.” that was quite silly and as none of them fantastic it was to have quality time knew each other it made with their child doing something they “One child struggled with his written “George and his dad, Kevin, attended everyone laugh. Then at the wouldn’t normally do. I remember at work but wanted to produce a story every session. Kevin particularly enjoyed last session a lot of the Waterstones how shocked parents were for our booklet so he persevered. spending quality time with his son. mums were swapping by the children’s disappointed reactions One child was lacking in confidence but George was so eager to tell me one phone numbers saying when we asked if we could hold onto during sessions with his friends from Thursday night how he’d read over 80 they would keep in one of the books the children had school he became more involved. One pages of one of Tom Palmer’s books touch, it was great!” bought – bearing in mind they were child’s older sister became particularly on his way from Hull to the Man City all originally reluctant readers! We also involved and showed a keen interest match (he and Dad are Man City season got each parent and child to produce in something she would not normally ticket holders) and finished the book on a display together to promote reading have participated in. The Head his way home. They have also written to during the World Cup .That was good commented on how enthusiastic and Shay Given in the hope that he might to see - heads bowed getting on with excited the children were the morning sign his card for them. One of our other it – really enthusiastic. Thumbs up all after the evening session.” boys, Aiden, tells me he is now ‘totally round!” addicted to Tom Palmer’s books’. Mum “One child in particular has had a says he didn’t read much before!” “It has been great to see the pupils’ “Jason gained in self confidence. He traumatic life so far. The teachers were enthusiasm grow as well as their was particularly enthralled by the delighted that he turned up to all knowledge of authors and football. I’ve author visit. Prior to this he was a very sessions and was so excited to be part learned things too. The parents, pupils, hyperactive boy who found it difficult of the PLRS.” school and community are benefiting to keep still. During the author visit he from this scheme.” sat and listened to Dan Freedman and “One of our PLRS members was so asked him lots of questions. Victoria excited to go to the sessions he was has medical problems which means awake at 5 o’clock in the morning that she has very severe migraines asking when could he go!”

14 15 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT ACTIVITY PROJECT RESULTS

“The Team’s Community Worker “Deborah Glynn at Manchester City All children, parents and carers Black or Hispanic Examples of public Black British attended meetings with library staff organised a tour of the stadium and registered to the scheme are asked 65% 2% library/Premier League 12% of the children were boys club relationships: and organised a presentation evening presentation where we met Shay Given. to complete online evaluation PRE at the club which included the tour of Deborah also gave the children goody and POST project questionnaires. Asian or 3% the stadium, a Wolves mascot present bags containing City photos and a 35% Asian British “Fulham provided each of the children Middle and there was a question and answer Horrid Henry book.” PLRS aims to measure changes in of the children were girls 19% and their parents with match tickets, Eastern session with Marcus Hahnemann, attitude towards reading, leading to goody bags and gave the group a tour behavioural change and subsequent Ethnic of with food provided.” who was excellent with the children origin and stayed until the end of the event.” enhanced enjoyment and ability.

CHILDREN:

9% 65% Mixed White 2% were aged 7 5% PRE PROJECT: were aged 12

15% 18% were How much do you enjoy reading? were aged 11 aged 8 Very much 15%

Ages of Quite a lot 12% children that took Not very 28% part Not at all 45%

26% 34% were aged 10 were aged 9 How confident do you feel about reading?

Very much 19%

Quite a lot 21%

Not very 37%

Not at all 23%

16 17 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT RESULTS PROJECT RESULTS

How often do you read outside of school? How confident do you feel speaking Post PROJECT: Do you think that participating in PLRS has made you: in front of other people? Never or almost never 30% Do you think that taking part in Enjoy reading more 64% 15% Premier League Reading Stars has Once or twice a month 27% made you: Feel more confident about reading41% Very confident Once or twice a week 30% 21% 54% Better at reading 49% Every day or almost every day 13% Quite confident Read more with your family Read more often 51%

Post project: 35% 40% As a result of Premier League Reading Stars, do you now feel more Not very confident Talk about reading more with your family confident speaking in front of other people? Never or almost never 4% 29% 48% YES, a lot 45% Once or twice a month 23% Not confident at all Talk about reading more with your friends YES, a little 39% Once or twice a week 52% How often do you go to the library? NO, not at all 5% Every day or almost every day 21%

25% 12% Not sure 11% Do you read with your family? Do you ever go to a bookshop? Never About once a week 68% 18% 7% 19% of children attended five or more PLRS sessions read four books, 15% read five and 12% read six Not sure YES, a lot 33% YES 21% 88% 64% of children attended all seven PLRS sessions of children said they enjoyed participating NO A couple of in the project times a year 45% 18% 87% 3% About once a month of children read two or more books during One child managed to read 29 Not sure their Reading Stars project books in the space of their PLRS project! 33% 41% NO, not at all YES, a little

18 19 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT RESULTS PROJECT RESULTS

71% Qualitative feedback “It has made me read nearly every day!” adults: Adult employment status: from the child of children say they now read more because they participants: “I am confident in reading more so it I am employed full time 28% know that footballers read has changed a little part of my life.” 30% of adult participants were Male “I now read books more often.” I am self employed 8% 38% “Yes, it has made me more confident to I am employed part time 30% of children said that meeting a footballer was “It’s made me read more!” tell other people about the books I have 70% their favourite part of PLRS, making this the most read.” of adult participants were Female I am a stay at home parent 17% popular section of the scheme, with meeting “I enjoy reading a lot more than an author the second favourite element of the “Yes, it has made me more confident before.” Black or Hispanic I am a carer 3% Black British scheme at 37% in life.” 2% 8% “Since I have been coming, it has made I am retired 6% “It has made me read more and express 88% me more confident in reading and Asian or of children said that they will go to their library my opinion.” Asian 2% I am currently unemployed 8% speaking to everyone about my books. British more because of PLRS I love reading!” Middle “I have learnt more about how much 15% Eastern “Am now more confident in reading fun different books can be and how Ethnic 84% much fun football can be.” origin of children felt that they are now reading more books and I really find them enjoyable.” with their family

5% 68% 41% Mixed White of children joined their local library because of PLRS

96% of children said they will read more regularly because of participating in Premier League Reading Stars.

20 21 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT RESULTS PROJECT RESULTS

PRE PROJECT: How confident do you feel about reading? How often does your child read Post PROJECT: outside of school? How much do you enjoy reading? Not at all 35% Do you think that participating in PLRS has made you:

10% Never 15% 21% Quite a lot 11% Read more with your family 51% Not very 25% Rarely Very much Every day Quite 22% 14% Talk about reading more with your family 56%

Very 18% Talk about reading more with your friends 18%

Do you read with your family? 75% 40% of parents attended five or more PLRS sessions of parents now feel more confident speaking in A bit YES a lot 33% front of other people as a result of taking part in 28% 40% the PLRS activity workshops Not at all 78% YES a little 28% 31% 30% A few times a month About once a week of parents read two or more books whilst How confident do you feel speaking NO not at all 39% participating on PLRS 65% of parents say that they are reading more regularly in front of other people? Do you read with your child? because of PLRS Are you a member of your library? How often do you go to your library? 21% NO not at all 12% 28% of parents read three books 87% Very confident 29% 18% 53% 13% of parents think that they will go to their local YES Never About once library more because of PLRS 30% a week of parents read four books Quite confident 47% 6% 25% NO of parents joined their local library because of PLRS 39% of parents read five books Not very confident YES 41% a little 53% A couple of of parents said that taking part in PLRS had made of parents feel that their child’s reading confidence 19% times a year 46% 26% YES a lot has improved since participating on PLRS 30% 23% them enjoy reading more Not confident at all About once a month

22 23 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

PROJECT RESULTS PROJECT RESULTS

22% Qualitative feedback “I am now a more committed parent to “Me and my daughter have bonded a “It gave my son more confidence in from the ADULT my child.” lot better doing something together and reading in front of others and as I take of parents feel that their child is reading more participants: the meetings are nice to meet other my daughter with us, she is now more because of PLRS “Luke has read books by authors he parents.” interested in reading and talks about “It’s a reminder that the library is a would not normally read.” what she reads. I just want to say thank 52% “It has definitely given me the impetus you for this opportunity. It gives children fun place to go – not as boring as I to attend my local library and borrow of parents felt that they are reading more as a thought!” “It changed my life a lot in terms of an incentive in reading more family because of PLRS confidence.” books to read. This has had a positive and gives them confidence to influence on my family too as my “It has inspired me to read again – to interact with other children.” 74% “Spending quality time with my son. younger children are also encouraged to make time for books when I had got borrow books from the library. Overall, “Shared a wonderful of parents feel that their child will keep reading Taking time off work.” out of the habit of reading for me.” it has been an enjoyable experience and seven sessions with regularly as a result of PLRS “I have been able to encourage my I will encourage others to participate in other parents and “We read together everyday now. the future.” children.” Matt’s school work has also improved. children to read lots more, other than 84% school work.” of parents feel that they are reading more with Matt loved the course – especially the “It has given my daughter and I more books.” their child as a result of PLRS “It has made me realise how important things to talk about and has made Grace more confident in reading and writing.” 81% reading is for children. It has also enabled the children to enjoy reading “It has given me special time with my of parents feel that their child’s schoolwork has and realise that it is not a chore. I think son, something we don’t always find the improved since participating on PLRS it is a brilliant scheme with several time for.” positive benefits for both children and 85% of parents said PLRS parents.” “I got to enjoy listening to Conor read gave them an opportunity to and know that this was our special time bond with their child. “James has wanted to go out more on spent together.” Saturday mornings. It has been really nice for him to bond more with his “It has given us a better outlook on dad as a result of going with him. Colin reading.” came to most of the sessions with James and I have come for the last “I feel it has definitely made my son two.” realise he can enjoy reading and he is doing so.”

24 25 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

THE TOPPS STICKER ALBUM COMPETITION THE PREMIER LEAGUE READING STARS CHALLENGE

Sticker mad football and reading News and Daily 2010 saw the continuation of the completed project go into the hat for alongside their usual literacy activities fans across the country were treated Express journalist Mick Dennis PLRS national poster campaign, with quarterly national draws to win top – encouraging class members to take to a once in a lifetime opportunity charged with judging all the the second consecutive season of Premier League prizes, including free books home to read in their own time. this season – the chance to meet entries. Mick picked the top the Premier League Reading Stars books and free match tickets. the Premier League’s top goalkeeper 25 entries, who all qualified Challenge. Shay Given – all courtesy of a PLRS to attend a special session The PLRS Challenge was launched competition with TOPPS Stickers! with Manchester City Star The PLRS Challenge allows any in April 2009. Since then, nearly Shay Given at the City of formalised group of children in the 5000 poster packs have been PLRS and TOPPS Stickers have enjoyed a Manchester Stadium. country the chance to get involved, distributed, motivating around long standing and positive relationship through a free poster and sticker 150,000 children in the country! over a number of Reading Stars seasons, Mick was suitably impressed resource pack, available through the with TOPPS providing free sticker albums with the standard of entries Reading Stars website. On average in 2010, it took and stickers to all PLRS participating for the competition, saying: activities at their Swap & Play event, schools between six to eight children. In 2010, it was decided to take before being whisked into the Man City The challenge is simple: fill the chart weeks to complete their PLRS that partnership one stage further, with “I was really impressed by the passion media centre for their special meeting with reading stickers, one earned for Challenge poster, with many a jointly run, national competition. for football that shone through in all the with Shay. every completed book read. When the teachers running the project entries. Some of the reports were really class hit 100 stickers – the challenge is TOPPS ran a full page, more like radio or TV commentaries – but Every child was given the chance to ask complete! All groups that register a PLRS designed advert those who had tried to produce Shay a question and have their photo in this year’s edition of newspaper reports did so, taken with the Republic of Ireland star. the Match Attax album, comPetition! with some clever use of challenging youngsters words. The competition generated outstanding om ue.c eag ierl to write a 250 rem coverage and awareness of the PLRS P

HOW TO ENTER Would you like to To enter this once in a lifetime all you have to do is write a match competition, report of a Barclays Premier League game. Your match word match report, report can be from a game you have been to scheme across the country, whilst also meet one of your or one you have seen on TV. “I think I shall be working Your match report must include your own made-up headline and be Barclays Premier league words. All match reports willno more be judged than 250 by a panel of top experts, including Sky Sports complete with their pundit, Mick Dennis, and Barclays Premier encouraging a number of reluctant League legend, Robbie Earle. with some of these young Send your entry by post, including your home heroes? address and a contact telephone number to: Premier League Reading Stars Football Foundation If the answer is YES then this fantastic Whittington House own headline, before 19-30 Alfred Place readers to actually write something, and competition is definitely for you. London people in a few years!” Topps have teamed up with their WC1E 7EA friends at Premier League Reading Stars Or e-mail your entry including your home to offer 30 lucky collectors the chance address and a contact telephone number to: to take part in a special Reading [email protected] Stars Workshop. sending their entries The closing date for all entries is 01/03/10. have the confidence to send in their Every season, Premier League Reading Good luck! Stars asks top Premier League players to recommend their favourite books and encourage people of all ages to in to PLRS HQ. read and write more. entry to a national competition. The special Reading Stars workshop When the big day finally will take place at one of Topps’ fantastic Swap & Play events* during Easter 2010. The session will include loads of exciting reading activities as well as a Entries flooded into Question and Answer session with a Premier League player. arrived, the 25 youngsters the office at PLRS raced to the City of The response from the competition and TERMS & COnDITIOnS 1. The final date and venue for the Reading Stars Workshop will not be confirmed until 15/03/10. 2. The player selected to appear will not be confirmed prior to the Reading Stars Workshop event. 3. All winners will be contacted by telephone or post no later than 15/03/10. 4. Topps or Premier League Reading Stars are not responsible for winners’ travel expenses to or from the Reading Stars Workshop event. HQ in London, 5. The Reading Stars Workshop is only open to the 30 lucky winners. the actual winners’ day, was incredibly 6. This prize cannot be exchanged for a cash alternative. Manchester Stadium to with famous take part in a host of TOPPS positive and beneficial to the scheme.

26 27 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

THE PREMIER LEAGUE READING STARS CHALLENGE THE PREMIER LEAGUE READING STARS CHALLENGE

Q uALITATIVE feedback “It had a very significant impact on PLRS Challenge In order for us to achieve reading the Therefore, I would like to say a huge from teachers: the group. It brought them together Case Study: 100 books by the end of the Summer thanks to yourself and the others who as a team who encouraged each other Term, we put aside one English lesson have organised this challenge, as without “Year 6 are highly motivated by football to read. It inspired all members of the The Premier League Reading Stars for them a week, where they would be it I honestly believe that we would and the chance to win football stuff group to read much more than they Challenge that I chose to run at given the opportunity to read a book of have continually struggled to engage was engaging for them. For Year 2 it was usually would.” Cornfield School in Littlehampton, West their choice. This again has been really the children in reading, and certainly more about putting a sticker on the Sussex from May–July 2010, proved successful, so much so, that Year 7 and wouldn’t have made it as fun as your chart, but boys loved that it was football 92% to be extremely successful within our Year 8 have even been reading books challenge has. It really has made a orientated. Good vehicle for other secondary school. during tutor time, which is something massive difference in the way that the of teachers said that the PLRS Challenge made learning as well as increasing reading that they have refused to do in the past. KS3 boys view reading now, so, long may their class want to read more – children had to tell somebody else in As you have already been made Also, because of the clear success of it continue! the class about the book they’d read/ aware, Cornfield School is attended by this challenge, I have now put into the favourite characters etc so promoted 83% excluded children, meaning that they English Subject Development Plan for Many thanks and best wishes. speaking and listening of teachers felt that the children in their class are pupils that have been excluded from September 2010/2011, to continue targets and comprehension too.” would keep reading regularly after the project a mainstream setting, and have not with ‘in-house’ reading challenges, Sarah Poole had finished been successful in other placements and of course will be entering Cornfield Subject Leader of English at “A group of very reluctant readers found they further attended such as PRUs’. into next year’s Reading Stars Cornfield School Challenge again! that working together made the goal The PLRS Challenge is available for Therefore, by the time they reach us, much smaller for them as an individual, FREE to absolutely ANYONE. a large majority would have missed a making reading a far less daunting task.” lot of their education, and have a very To request your pack log on to: negative view of any type of schooling. “The project raised the profile of reading. www.plrschallengeregistration.org.uk Boys and girls interested in football or go to: I chose to launch the challenge with really responded very well. Children fed www.premierleaguereadingstars.org.uk primarily those students in KS3, as they back to class about each book read, for more info. are absolutely sport crazy, particularly to qualify for a sticker. Got real team with football. Therefore, this seemed spirit about challenge – desperate to get like the perfect thing for them to take sticker and talk about their book. Made part in. However, I honestly did not reading cool and they offered book think it would be as successful as it has to peers at end of talk in response to been! All kids from Year 7 to Year 9 were question from child – is it up for grabs?” immediately interested and enthusiastic to take part in the competition, as they were really keen to win the top prize.

28 29 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

MEDIA COVERAGE MEDIA COVERAGE

Each year the project holds a sporadic media coverage both locally actually registered with PLRS libraries. The PLRS Project national media launch, with a and nationally throughout the year in This coverage is one of the strongest Newsletter: focal event for broadcast media a number of publications, as well as aspects of PLRS and helps to create a and numerous follow up national Premier League clubs’ official websites strong brand identity for the project, The project also produces a central newspaper hits over one designated and match day programmes. recognised throughout the country. newsletter, documenting key events, weekend to create widespread good news stories and best practice coverage of, and interest around In April 2010, West Ham United hosted amongst the scheme. The Official the scheme. the national media launch involving Newsletter is distributed to all Premier first team goalkeeper, Jonathan Spector, League clubs, all affiliated libraries and Due to the high profile nature of the reading to local children from his book schools as well as all project participants. scheme, PLRS also attracts additional choice: Huckleberry Finn by Mark Twain. Copies are also sent to key partners of The children also got to enjoy a session the scheme, trustees of the Football of multi sports activity on the pitch Foundation, as well as being available for at Upton Park, with Jonathan Spector anyone to download from the project joining in the fun. The event was covered website. The newsletter represents an specifically by BBC’sMatch of the Day excellent overview of project activity, and shown in the community feature both factually and visually, and has section of the Sunday morning repeat become an integral part of the scheme show. over the past five years.

In terms of print and website coverage, PLRS attracted coverage in a number of regional newspapers following the media launch, and particular articles in national newspapers including; The Sun, The Guardian, Timesonline and the websites of premierleague.com, Four Four Two magazine and Nursery World.

Such prevalent and significant media coverage allows the impact of the scheme to reach far greater audiences than the finite number of families

30 31 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

financial overview financial OVERVIEW

Figures include forecast spend to the end of calendar year 2010. PLRS FINANCIAL Library Project Costs came in at £3,567 up of PLRS Challenge posters in 2010, Underspend at 31 December 2010 under budget. In particular, savings were substantial savings were also made on will be discussed by the project Steering Annual Allocation Actual Spend Variance Amount COMMENTARY 2010 Project Staff Costs made on the costs of books for libraries the allocated budget for PLRS Challenge Group and re-distributed or reclaimed as Project Coordinator1 38,866.00 26,861.42 12,004.58 Football Foundation costs 10,500.00 10,500.00 0.00 Starting with an annual budget of (£2667) thanks to the continued 25% poster distribution. With £21,724 being appropriate and at the discretion of each National Literacy Trust Management Costs 2,824.00 0.00 2,824.00 discount from book provider Peters and carried over from 2009 into Additional individual funding partner. 52,190.00 37,361.42 14,828.58 £212,775 and adding in the additional Central Project Costs £28,333 underspend from 2009, the £1,650 unclaimed on Librarians’ Time. Project Activity, it was agreed by the Project staff training (club staff) 3,000.00 2,933.01 66.99 total working budget for PLRS 2010 was Steering Group to employ an external Training and Meetings 4,000.00 5,517.45 -1,517.45 Library Activity Costs reflected a Posters/Player Cards 8,500.00 9,344.35 -844.35 £241,108. As highlighted in the table research company to evaluate in detail Newsletters/Tactics Books 4,000.00 326.24 3,673.76 substantial underspend of £13,909. Travel and subsistence 850.00 0.00 850.00 above, the underspend from 2009 was the qualitative success of PLRS 2010. Leaflets 0.00 336.05 -336.05 distributed between Library Activity Such an underspend was generated Further to a tender process, Certificates 1,300.00 951.75 348.25 through lower than expected costs Bookmarks 1,000.00 976.57 23.43 costs (Arts Council funded activities – market researchers BDRC Book plate stickers 400.00 0.00 400.00 £6,609) and Additional Project Activity for author visits (despite 100% of Continental were employed Press and Media 5,000.00 4,460.70 539.30 libraries running an author visit session) Distribution 300.00 0.00 300.00 (£21,724). to undertake this piece of Online Evaluation Costs 485.00 124.49 360.51 and lower than budgeted spend at work, with their costs Project sundries – couriers 1,000.00 0.00 1,000.00 Project telephone 485.00 124.00 361.00 Project Staff Costs came in on budget, bookstores (despite 100% of libraries coming in at £24,000, 28,835.00 24,970.61 3,864.39 running a bookshop visit). Library Project Costs with all management costs and internal thus fully utilising this Librarian Time 11,100.00 9,450.00 1,650.00 on-costs accounted for. The final four element of the 2010 Library Books 22,400.00 19,723.02 2,676.98 months of 2010 will see a saving of budget. Display stand 2,500.00 3,750.00 -1,250.00 Within the Development category Kids' goody bag 6,000.00 5,446.13 553.87 £2,029 due to staffing changes. Kids' T Shirts 3,500.00 3,563.78 -63.78 of the budget a substantial £11,000 45,500.00 41,932.93 3,567.07 Library Activity Costs Central Project Costs, including saving was made as a result of the Author visits 25,962.00 15,646.36 10,315.64 PLRS not running a Premier League Free books 15,647.00 12,052.90 3,594.10 all printed materials and marketing 41,609.00 27,699.26 13,909.74 materials, ended the year £9,110 club Extension Work projects. Development Club activity costs – Extension Projects 11,000.00 1,510.00 9,490.00 under budget. The main causes of the The decision was made by the PLRS Challenge Production 6,000.00 6,047.40 -47.40 underspend included a £3,674 saving project Steering Group not to run PLRS Challenge Distribution 25,000.00 2,114.09 22,885.91 Additional Project Activity 21,724.00 13,196.86 8,527.14 on planned travel costs, and savings the option for extension projects, Contingency Fund2 9,250.00 0.00 9,250.00 due to the changing structure of 72,974.00 22,868.35 50,105.65 of around £1,000 on staff training, TOTAL 241,108.00 154,832.57 86,275.43 newsletters and distribution. the way in which Premier League community grants are overseen. Invoices yet to be processed 31,468.00 Management costs yet to be procesed3 14,828.58 To run a PLRS extension project Total Predicted Underspend 31 December 2010 34,508.43 would not appear confusing to

Total underspend for 2009 = 21,724 + 1,647 + 4,962 = £28,333 Premier League clubs at this time. 19975 expected for NLT Temp (£15 per hour x 7 hours x 5 days x 19 weeks) 27,500 has been moved to this category from FF Management Costs as of 27/08/10 With a smaller than expected take 3(The Additional Saving on Project Manager is 2,029.58)

32 33 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

TOTAL PARTICIPANTS letters from the parents

CLUB Number of Libraries Number of Participants The Official PLRS Newsletter gets lots “As another successful PLRS scheme “Thank you so much for the of post, with letters from parents and comes to a close we would like to say complimentary tickets for the Fulham Arsenal 3 60 children on the Reading Stars scheme. just how beneficial and what a positive Vs Wigan match. My brother took my Aston Villa 3 60 Here’s our pick of the best... experience it has been for the families son (he’s ten) to see it (his first proper Birmingham City 3 60 and all the staff involved. There has been football match) he absolutely loved it and Blackburn Rovers 4 80 “I would like to say a very big thank you very positive feedback from the school is now asking for a season ticket! I have Bolton Wanderers 3 60 to you both from myself and Luke and and the families, one parent in particular just seen one of our reading stars in the Burnley 2 40 Ashley for this last few weeks. We have all has been overwhelmed by the experience Library who also went to the match with enjoyed the sessions at the library, not to and couldn’t thank us enough for our his Dad and was telling me all about it. He Chelsea 4 80 mention meeting Tom Palmer of course involvement. Once again Birmingham and his family joined the Library through Everton 1 20 ☺ and tonight was just fantastic. Being City Football Club have been extremely the Reading Stars. I was just talking to Fulham 5 100 able to meet David James and have a look supportive and generous, the tour of his Mum who was telling me that before Hull City 3 60 round was just amazing. the ground was the highlight of the Reading Stars they had never set foot in Liverpool 2 40 The only thing now is I’m not sure who to scheme. Our tour guide, Nick Coleman a Library and now her son is nagging her choose, Tom Palmer or David James? was an absolute gem with his genuine to bring him in as well as his brother and Manchester City 3 60 enthusiasm, wit and anecdotes, he made sister. Manchester United 4 80 Anyway, a really BIG thank you to you it a day to remember. We’re all looking Portsmouth 6 120 both for making it happen and for making forward to our final session with Tom Just shows that Reading Stars is well Stoke City 5 100 it such fun...” Palmer whose performance last time was worth all the effort!! Sunderland 4 80 so outstanding the pupils are still talking Julie, Parent, Portsmouth FC project about it. We sincerely hope the Football Thanks!” Tottenham Hotspur 4 80 Foundation continue to fund this amazing West Ham United 6 120 scheme, it triggers or renews people’s Theresa, Mum, Fulham FC Project Wigan Athletic 2 40 passion for reading and provides a unique Wolves 3 60 and unforgettable experience. PLRS TOPPS Day - 50 PLRS Challenge - 60,000 Heartfelt thanks.” PLRS Challenge 72 61,490 Kerry and Helen from Balsall Heath Library

34 35 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

CONCLUSION CONCLUSION

PLRS 2010 has produced an ran more than eight sessions – one more read and completed two or more books On average, across the scheme, 68% by footballers again proves that this changed a little part of my life”, the impressive showing of project than expected – again demonstrating during the seven week period of PLRS of all participants attended five or theory is valid. enduring effect of the project is clearly activity, with more single sessions huge commitment and enthusiasm demonstrating the change in behaviour more sessions with 21% of children highlighted. being run in one season than ever towards the scheme. created by the scheme. With many of attending all seven designated sessions. Arguably, the most important impact before. the child participants admitting that Attendance is traditionally a problem of the PLRS project is what happens Once the project had finished, 96% of The quality of delivery within these before the project, they hardly read at for Saturday morning clubs, especially following that initial inspiration. Once children said that they would read more 32% of libraries ran six PLRS sessions sessions and the impact that they have all (73% of children stating they didn’t in local libraries, but the return of nearly the participants have been inspired to regularly because of PLRS – an incredible as part of their project, with 52% of had on participants is highlighted by enjoy reading and 30% saying they three quarters of all child participants try a footballer’s recommended read, success rate when working with initial libraries running all seven designated the significant changes in attitude the read never or almost never) to read two attending the majority of the sessions the content of the project sessions aims reluctant readers. PLRS sessions. Over 450 sessions in project has brought about in 2010. whole books within the space of seven demonstrates a clear commitment to to harness that initial interest, and bring total were delivered during PLRS 2010 The fact that on average, each child weeks is a dramatic improvement and a the scheme and its importance within about an enduring change in attitude. Changing attitudes towards reading and – a record for one year of the scheme. borrowed seven books from their library sizeable achievement for many of these the families that attend. With 54% of The significant differences in attitude eventually improving reading habits are The high percentage of libraries willing during the PLRS programme highlights children. One child even managed to children saying that the scheme has and behaviour before and after the child the two most important outcomes of to commit to running six or more the sudden interest in books and reading complete 29 books! made them read more with their family has participated in the project, show PLRS and the above results demonstrate PLRS sessions during their programme that the scheme generates. 87% of and 85% of parents saying the scheme these changes taking place in the 2010 the success the project has delivered on demonstrates not only enthusiasm children confirmed that they gave them an opportunity to bond with project. these outcomes in 2010. towards the project, but also strong their child, the impact of the scheme commitment to the actual content of within the family is highly significant 64% of children said they enjoyed the sessions, with library staff clearly and should not be underestimated. With reading more straight away, with 88% feeling that running the outlined additional comments from the parents of children saying they will go to their designated sessions were worthwhile including; “I am now a more committed library more because of the PLRS project. workshop experiences for their parent to my child”, the true impact of The number of children who said they participants. 100% of libraries ran both PLRS goes far beyond reading habits never read fell by 26% bookshop visits and author visits – the with their family. between the start and first time both aspects of the scheme end of the project, with have been fully utilised. The PLRS The essence of the scheme is the the number of children delivery curriculum outlines activities for interest and engagement with reading reading more than once seven sessions, and with over half of all generated through the involvement of a week rising by 30%. projects completing the full programme, Premier League players. The fact that With one particular child there is clear evidence that the 84% of librarians felt that reluctant commenting that; content of the scheme is meeting the readers in their group had been inspired “I am confident expectations of the project deliverers. to try one of the books on the reading of reading more, Interestingly, 16% of libraries actually list because the titles had been selected so PLRS has

36 37 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 20092010 Premier League Reading Stars Annual Review 2010

CONCLUSION AIMS FOR 2011

An interesting side effect of participating Utilising footballers as reading role The increases in reading habits amongst The findings from the Strategic an incentive for children and their On the basis of BDRC’S qualitative in PLRS workshops is the positive impact models of course is the single most the children in particular have also Overview concluded overwhelmingly parents to enhance their enjoyment of assessment, they recommend that PLRS on both social confidence and reading significant motivating factor, with 71% generated positive effects within the to continue the scheme into 2010, reading. should continue its valuable and highly out loud. 45% of children said that they of children saying they will read more school environment. 81% of parents extending the reach of the PLRS regarded work. now felt more confident speaking in now, specifically because they know felt that their child had improved their content specifically into schools. Meeting authors, visiting bookshops front of other people having participated that footballers read. This is one of the school work since participating in the and enjoying the professional skills of Taking into account the findings of in PLRS, with 40% of parents saying the strongest aspects of the project as the scheme, demonstrating a positive effect The research conducted by BDRC librarians to help choose appropriate both the 2010 project and the research same. Such impacts are highlighted by list of the twenty Reading Stars and of the scheme, outside of the library in reported categorically that PLRS is materials is great fun, enjoyable and conducted throughout the year, a the comments of one parent, who said: their book choices can be the main which the sessions took place. This is very highly regarded among child certainly productive. proposal has been submitted to the “(PLRS) gives children incentive to read draw for many of the participants to further highlighted by the comments of participants, parents and Premier League to continue the work more and gives them confidence to become involved and the players are one parent, who said: “We read together librarians. The It is very apparent that there are positive of the scheme over an 18-month period, interact with other children.” often the most significant factor in every day now. Matt’s school work has structure of ‘unintended’ consequences of PLRS, focussing specifically on increasing the inspiring those participants to actually also improved. Matt loved the course – the scheme, most notably the social and familial number of institutions running PLRS pick up a book. 94% of libraries received especially the books.” its basis on aspect of children spending quality time workshops to 1500. a Premier League Ground Tour and ten football and with parents and using reading as a out of twenty Premier League clubs sent PLRS therefore holds an important and the energy and means of bonding. The national PLRS Challenge would also their Reading Star to meet their library high profile role in the promotion of enthusiasm of continue, also including a new online groups. Both factors are invaluable to the literacy to both children and families. the librarians The only substantive element of concern and digital element via the engagement and subsequent inspiration Premier League Reading Stars can at all provide is the policy (or lack of it?) applied by Premier League’s official website, of the scheme. the very least raise awareness of the schools at the participant recruitment www.premierleague.com enjoyment and importance of reading stage. It was common to find children The fact that 84% of parents now feel throughout this targeted age group and who were not ‘poor readers’. With the withdrawal of the Football they are reading more with their child potentially make significant changes Foundation’s large Community because of the impact of PLRS and that to the behaviours of those children. One of the ways the scheme works Grants Scheme, a 66% shortfall in 87% of parents think they will now go For those lucky enough to take part is the power of the ‘I want to be like the PLRS budget needs to be made to the library more demonstrates the in the designated library sessions, the [footballer]’. Some librarians reported up, potentially through additional enduring effects the scheme can have, experience can be both memorable and that some better readers in a group are contributions from the Premier League far beyond the time period of the seven rewarding. One parent summed up their likely to make a similar ‘I want and Arts Council England. project sessions. experience by simply saying: “We shared to be like him/her’ positive a wonderful seven sessions with other impact on the whole A decision will be made on the parents and children.” group as they encourage future content and governance of the less engaged readers to Premier League Reading Stars by enjoy reading, too. September 2010.

38 39 For more information contact: Ralph Newbrook Email: [email protected] www.premierleaguereadingstars.org.uk

Photographs courtesy of Action Images and Premier League Football Clubs.