Volunteer Reading Tutor Programme (VRTP)

In the Autumn term of 2016, the College’s Volunteer Reading Tutor Programme (VRTP) successfully took place again. A total of 73 students volunteered to work with low-progress readers in thirty-five schools across the nursery, primary, post-primary, special, hospital school and Irish-medium sectors within the Greater Belfast area and beyond. Such sites stretched across the maintained, controlled and integrated sectors.

Students in BEd years 2-4 freely gave up to two hours of their time per week for a maximum of nine weeks to assist those children and young adults who struggle with the demands of reading. As a consequence of such positive partnerships, some students have, at the request of their host schools, continued their service until the end of the academic year. Indeed, some schools have kindly agreed to facilitate some of their final-year student volunteers in conducting their college-based dissertation work.


Schools and students alike have endorsed the programme fully, and this is evidenced by very positive feedback. It is gratifying to hear that schools are pinpointing our BEd students as a valuable resource. Their use of initiative and willingness to work with school staff have been flagged up as particular strengths. In recognition of this work, the students have been awarded Certificates of Achievement.