Quick reads

The Reading Agency - Reading Ahead

One in six people struggle to read. Reading Ahead supports young people and adults by changing their perception of reading, opening up opportunities and building their confidence.

Research shows that when people are inspired to read for pleasure they benefit from far greater opportunities in everyday life, education and employment. Reading Ahead is a gateway to these opportunities. The programme is designed to help people improve their reading skills and develop a love of reading.

Since launching in 2008, Reading Ahead has reached well over 300,000 people. In 2017-2018, Reading Ahead reached 38,500 young people and adults – 6,500 through public libraries working with local partners, 18,500 in adult learning organisations, in particular further education and six form colleges, 12,000 in prisons and 1,500 in workplaces, mainly led by trade unions such as UNISON and USDAW across the UK.

About the programme

Reading Ahead is run through public libraries, adult learning organisations, colleges, workplaces and prisons. Reading Ahead invites participants to pick six reads and record, rate and review them in a personal reading diary. After completing their diary, participants receive a certificate and can enter a national prize draw! The programme isn't just about books - it's also about using newspapers, magazines and websites. The aim is to challenge participants to try something new and discover that reading can be a pleasure in the process.

To find out more about Reading Ahead visit the Reading Agency resources database for guidance and templates on how to run the programme, and see examples of case studies for further ideas and evidence of impact.

 

Further information

Visit the Quick Reads website to find out more.

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For further information on Everyday Skills, email Catherine Garvie.

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