Young readers need a buddy

VOLUNTEERS are needed to mentor and help develop young minds at Cranbourne West Primary School.
The school is looking for more volunteers to be mentors as part of the ‘bridges’ program, which is designed to improve the literacy skills of students.
Mentors listen to children reading and give them praise, advice and encouragement.
Parents and community liaison at the school Debbie Nobbs said the mentors were invaluable.
Ms Nobbs said additional support from adult role models helped the students reach their full potential. “A mentor can make a huge difference in a child’s life,” she said.
The volunteers did not need a teaching background, and the school offered training.
Mentor Geoff Roscoe works one-on-one with a Grade 5 student twice a week to help the student practise their reading, spelling and comprehension skills.
“A lot of children are missing the advantages of being able to read and write and if I can help them do this it will make a difference to the rest of their lives,” Mr Roscoe said.
Anyone who wants to volunteers as literacy mentor or assistant can contact Debbie Nobbs on 5996 2878 or 0409 419 306.