University of Warwick Reading Programme Brings Stories, Confidence and Campus Celebration to Local Children

University of Warwick Reading Programme Brings Stories, Confidence and Campus Celebration to Local Children

(IN BRIEF) The University of Warwick has celebrated the largest year yet for its Reading and Literacy Programme, with more than 120 children from seven local primary schools completing the initiative. The programme supports children who have had fewer opportunities to read for pleasure by pairing them with Warwick staff and student volunteers. Over several weeks, pupils read Knight Sir Louis and The Sorcerer of Slime by the Brothers McLeod and took part in creative activities linked to the story. Each child received a copy of the book to take home. The programme is delivered in partnership with Tile Hill Community Partnership, Templars Primary School and Warwick Volunteers. The initiative was recently recognised with a Warwick Award for Public and Community Engagement, reflecting its positive impact on children, schools and local communities. This year’s programme involved 13 staff volunteers and four student volunteers.

(PRESS RELEASE) COVENTRY, 10-Jul-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — More than 120 children from seven local primary schools have completed the University of Warwick’s biggest Reading and Literacy Programme to date, marking the milestone with a celebration day on campus filled with stories, science and creative activities.

The programme is designed to support children who have had fewer opportunities to read for pleasure. It pairs pupils with Warwick staff and student volunteers, who read with them, discuss stories and help them build confidence as young readers.

Over several weeks, participating pupils explored Knight Sir Louis and The Sorcerer of Slime by local authors and illustrators the Brothers McLeod. Children also took part in creative activities inspired by the book, helping them engage with the story in imaginative and personal ways.

Each child received their own copy of the book to take home, supporting the aim of continuing their reading journey beyond the programme itself.

Katie Lockton, teacher at Limbrick Wood Primary School, said the sessions had been highly engaging for pupils.

“Having the University of Warwick coming into our school has been a great pleasure,” said Lockton. “The groups have been engaging for our young people, who always come back excited about reading and can’t wait for the next session.”

She added that pupils had spoken positively about the book and about growing in confidence when reading aloud in front of other children.

Tamara Friedrich, Associate Professor at Warwick Business School and a volunteer on the programme, said it had been a privilege to take part.

“Reading is so important for unlocking learning, but also for sparking children’s curiosity and imagination,” said Friedrich. “It has been a delight to see the children engage with the story in their own unique ways and grow in confidence as they explored the adventures of Knight Sir Louis. I think we had as much fun as the children!”

The Reading and Literacy Programme is delivered by the University of Warwick in partnership with Tile Hill Community Partnership, Templars Primary School and Warwick Volunteers.

The annual initiative aims to help children develop a love of reading at an important stage in their education. By encouraging reading for pleasure, the programme supports long-term educational outcomes, confidence-building and greater engagement with books and learning.

Martin Price, Associate Director for Regional Engagement at the University of Warwick, said the programme demonstrates the value of strong local partnerships.

“Universities can make a real difference when they work closely with the communities around them,” said Price. “This programme shows the positive impact that can happen when academic expertise, local knowledge and people’s lived experiences come together.”

He added that Warwick is committed to building partnerships across the region and supporting projects that create meaningful community impact.

The programme was recently recognised with a Warwick Award for Public and Community Engagement, which celebrates the positive difference made by Warwick staff and students through collaboration with communities.

The award highlights the value of bringing together schools, local organisations, authors, university staff and students to help children discover the enjoyment of reading.

This year’s programme was supported by 13 Warwick staff volunteers and four student volunteers, who gave their time to read with children, encourage discussion and help pupils gain confidence through stories.

About the University of Warwick 

Founded in 1965, the University of Warwick is a world-leading institution known for its commitment to era-defining innovation across research and education. A connected ecosystem of staff, students and alumni, the University fosters transformative learning, interdisciplinary collaboration and bold industry partnerships across state-of-the-art facilities in the UK and global satellite hubs. Here, spirited thinkers push boundaries, experiment and challenge convention to create a better world.

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SOURCE: University of Warwick