County Carlow Primary Schools’ opportunity to be part of Right to Read literacy programme
Primary schools across County Carlow have an opportunity to engage and immerse their 5th and 6th class students in the Right to Read Programme to promote literacy and reading development from Carlow County Council’s Local Enterprise Office and Carlow County Library.
The Right to Read Campaign is being developed to provide a nationally coordinated framework for literacy support and development through all local authorities in line with the Programme for Government. The Right to Read Campaign looks to complement and support existing programmes and initiatives including Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) and early childhood strategies, providing continuity and reinforcement outside of formal education, supporting children, parents and adults with low levels of literacy and developing a locally cohesive, integrated and sustainable approach which is standard across the country.
Carlow County Council Local Enterprise Office in partnership with Carlow County Library Service, as part of the National Right to Read Campaign, are launching a Short Story competition for all 5th and 6th class primary school pupils in County Carlow.
The competition will invite pupils to submit a short story about “My Favourite Local Business”. The pupil will also include a short piece on what career they would like to have in the future and why? There are prizes lined up for first, second and third place winners. Each pupil who participates will received a certificate.
Speaking about the programme, Cllr. Andrea Dalton, Cathaoirleach with Carlow County Council said “I’d encourage our students and teachers to engage in this project to create and maintain an awareness of literacy needs and literacy development amongst all ages. Improving literacy standards is a national priority to ensure this basic right is afforded to all individuals. This programme is to involve the children in County Carlow to raise awareness of how crucial literacy is needed in social practices.’ Speaking about the importance of adult literacy to developing businesses in County Carlow Andrea said, “I’m delighted to see this partnership between the LEO Office & Library which supports the next generation of entrepreneurs” Andrea commented that "Adult literacy is the foundation upon which individuals can build successful businesses and careers. The ability to read, write, and comprehend information is not just a fundamental skill; it is a gateway to knowledge, innovation, and self-improvement. In the world of business, effective communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving are essential. Adult literacy empowers individuals to navigate complex challenges, adapt to changing markets, and seize opportunities. It is the key that unlocks the doors to entrepreneurship, career advancement, and economic independence, enabling people to not only participate but thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of business."
Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor with the Local Enterprise Office Carlow added “The Right to Read program understands that literacy skills are essential for all ages to realise their personal, social, and educational potential. This competition encourages children to convey an interesting view on their favourite local business and how they would like to see themselves in the future. It is a great opportunity for children to be creative through language.”
The Project is partnership with the Library Service and Local Enterprise Office and Patricia Nolan from County Carlow libraries said “We are delighted to be working with the LEO offices on this project. Libraries are an important tool in business development in a County also in that Libraries are not just repositories of books; they are treasure troves of knowledge and innovation that fuel business growth. In libraries people find information, entrepreneurs find inspiration, research materials, and access to a wealth of resources crucial for their success. Libraries offer a quiet space for reflection and collaboration, fostering creativity and problem-solving. They are the great equalizers, providing free access to valuable databases, industry reports, and market insights that level the playing field for startups and small businesses. In a world where information is power, libraries are the secret weapons of thriving businesses."
Closing date for school entries is Thursday, 26th October 2023 at 4pm. Following closing date all applications will be assessed and the top story in 5th and 6th class per school will be invited to an award ceremony to be held in County Library Carlow on Thursday 23rd November 2023.
For further information contact Melissa Doyle, Business Advisor on mdoyle@carlowcoco.ie or by calling 059-9129783
