WARRINGTON & Vale Royal College has launched a ground-breaking reading initiative in response to a pressing need for tailored reading materials for pre-entry ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) students.
Spearheaded by ESOL tutor Rama and Learning Resources Manager Bethan, the initiative aims to enhance language acquisition through a series of customised reading books.
The idea first occurred when Rama encountered a sheer lack of reading materials aligned to the vocabulary levels of her students. Determined to bridge this gap, Rama took matters into her own hands and wrote a series of books tailored to her students’ learning journey. Collaborating closely with the college’s Learning Resources Manager Bethan, the pair crafted six books, each set in a familiar context and featuring clear, accessible text complimented with recognisable imagery.
Since it was first introduced, the initiative, which is now integrated into the college’s wider ‘Read On’ scheme, has garnered significant praise. ESOL students have read over 180 books this term alone – an extraordinary feat considering their limited knowledge and understanding of the English language. Bethan expressed her delight at the success of the scheme, saying: “It has been a joy for the library to work hand-in-hand with the ESOL team to create such a valuable resource, and to see how much the students have progressed.”
Tim Evans, Curriculum Manager for ESOL at the college, said: “I am truly blown away. These are the reasons we work in education, and the support provided to these students has been incredible.” Tim emphasised the collective cross-college effort driving this success, acknowledging the unwavering commitment of all involved parties.
Committed to fostering ongoing development, Warrington & Vale Royal College remains steadfast in its dedication to nurturing this reading initiative and witnessing its continued growth and success.
For more information about Warrington & Vale Royal College’s range of ESOL courses, and the wide range of other courses available to adult students, visit: wvr.ac.uk/adults
