To celebrate World Book Day KPMG in the Crown Dependencies is celebrating its long‑standing commitment to support literacy development at Amherst Primary School.
Established in 2009 and enabled by charity Bright Beginnings, ‘The Next Chapter’ literacy programme sends KPMG employees to visit the school every Wednesday during term time to provide one‑to‑one reading support for pupils who benefit from dedicated time and encouragement. The scheme helps strengthen fluency, comprehension and enjoyment of reading among pupils.
Dermot Dempsey (pictured), Territory Lead Partner at KPMG said: “Our reading support at Amherst is one of our most meaningful community initiatives. Reading builds confidence, curiosity and possibility – and every child deserves those foundations. The commitment of our volunteers and the enthusiasm of the pupils make this a programme we are incredibly proud of.”
Recent reading‑speed assessments at Amherst demonstrate the tangible impact of the weekly sessions. Over just five weeks, every child taking part recorded clear improvements in reading fluency, with increases ranging from 22 to 62 additional words per minute. Progress examples include pupils moving from 78 to 118 words per minute and 137 to 165 words per minute. These gains underline how consistent one‑to‑one reading time can rapidly build reading confidence and strengthen core literacy skills at a crucial stage in a child’s development.
Children involved spoke warmly of the project, saying that volunteers make them feel encouraged and valued. During a recent debrief, pupils shared comments including:
- “They are wonderful because when I was reading I got stuck and straight away they helped me.”
- “They are interested in us.”
- “You picked nice people and they help us get better at reading.”
Chief Executive Officer of Bright Beginnings, Lisa Blondel reinforced that dedicated reading time is crucial to a child’s outcomes in both school and later life:
“With attention on literacy during the UK’s National Year of Reading, the impact of our programme is more visible than ever, showcasing the difference consistent reading, supported by community involvement, can make. We are extremely grateful to KPMG for helping to close gaps in attainment and develop the literacy skills needed to thrive.”
