‘Read to Achieve’ campaign launched to improve literacy in UK schools

‘Read to Achieve’ campaign launched to help young people and struggling readers develop oral reading fluency and comprehension whilst raising literacy standards in UK schools

To improve reading and comprehension standards throughout UK schools, assistive technology specialist, Texthelp Systems (www.texthelp.com), has announced the launch of the Read to Achieve Campaign. This initiative is set to transform learning, particularly for pupils who struggle with reading by directly supporting literacy programmes in UK schools through (the provision of) Fluency Tutor - online reading support software, designed to develop oral reading fluency and comprehension for emerging and struggling readers.

Last year 100,000 pupils did not achieve the expected literacy levels by the end of primary school and the latest league tables reveal 1,310 primary schools in England fell below the expected standards.

Initially working in collaboration with primary schools throughout London and Birmingham, Texthelp will be introducing pupils to Fluency Tutor, supplied free of charge, as an integral part of each school’s literacy programme. Proven to be highly effective, Fluency Tutor will help support and enhance pupils’ reading and comprehension, ultimately improving grades.

Tailored to the learning needs of young readers, Fluency Tutor helps build confident readers and independent learners with the potential to increase their reading age through the program’s interactive and child friendly interface. This online program allows pupils to practise their reading, take assessments and get feedback on their performance.

An effective diagnostic tool, Fluency Tutor helps teachers to pinpoint a pupil’s reading levels, to assess that pupil’s skills, provide them with a tailored programme and to monitor that child’s progress. This technology works alongside teachers, effectively reducing time traditionally allocated to teaching reading skills, freeing them up to focus on other important areas of learning.

Mark McCusker, CEO, Texthelp Systems, commented: “Being able to read and write fluently is crucial to a child’s success throughout their education, career and daily life. Fluency Tutor has been designed to help pupils engage in reading by supporting their learning throughout this critical phase. The Read to Achieve campaign has been implemented to drive improvement in reading, fluency and comprehension in UK schools, helping pupils regardless of their ability, to embrace literacy and benefit from the rewards it will bring them today and in later life.”

Fluency Tutor will initially be offered free to selected primary schools throughout England from 1stJune 2012 to 30thMay 2013.

For further information about Texthelp and the Read to Achieve Campaign, please contact Elaine Emerson, Texthelp Systems, on Tel: 028 9442 8105, Email: e.emerson@texthelp.com or visit: www.texthelp.com.

About Texthelp Systems Ltd

Texthelp Systems Ltd is the worldwide leader of literacy software solutions provided through three core business divisions: Education, Speech Services and Publishing. Texthelp has been developing assistive technology software for the learning disabled community since 1996. The aim has always been to provide the most comprehensive cutting-edge technology available to provide inclusive education.

Based in Antrim, N. Ireland and with offices in the US, Texthelp is currently experiencing a period of sustained year on year growth.  The company has a reseller network covering over 20 countries.

About Fluency Tutor

This online program allows pupils to practise their reading, take assessments and see how they did. Teachers can assess pupils, monitor progress, and individualise instruction.

System Requirements: Operating Systems - PC or Mac (OS 10.4 or later)Web Browsers - Internet Explorer 8 or later, Firefox 3 or later, Google Chrome 10 or later, Safari 4 or laterAdobe Flash versions - Flash 10.1 or laterHardware - Speakers or Headphones and a Microphone are required (for students). Headset with microphone recommended for classroom use.Internet - Broadband internet connection recommended

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