How does technology boost pupils’ reading?

A new category has been added to the Kent Literacy Awards to reflect the rise in technology in the classroom.

The annual awards event turns the spotlight on the innovative and effective schemes used in the classroom to engage with pupils.

The awards celebrate the most exciting themes and projects used by schools to help pupils build develop the reading, writing, speaking and listening skills that will set them up for life. Nominations are open until the deadline of noon on May 1.

Nominations for the Kent Literacy Awards can be submitted by any member of school staff, pupils or parents. The 18 categories include Best Use of Drama, Best Use of Art or Poetry, Most Inspiring Book Corner, Best School Library, Best Book Week, as well as categories reflecting the use of technology. Winning schools will be invited to an awards celebration evening at Hempstead House Hotel, Sittingbourne attended by Phil Gallagher, star of CBeebies’ Mister Maker.

In addition, this year, children can submit online or handwritten book reviews for the chance to meet Phil at the Kent Literacy Awards.

Simon Dolby of the KM Charity Team said: “The awards shine a spotlight on the schemes that are resonating with pupils and getting them excited about communication whether it’s reading, writing, listening or speaking.”

Natalie Winter of KM Facilities Management said: “Technology plays an increasing role in our lives and we know is increasingly used in schools to develop literacy skills. We want the Kent Literacy Awards to help showcase great examples of how tech is used in practice so that best practice can be shared across the county.”

KM Facilities Management Group will join judges from literacy charity Beanstalk, Golding Vision, McCabe Ford Williams, Kent County Council, Medway Council, Bexley Council, Three R’s Teacher Recruitment, Orbit, AC Goatham and Son, Whitefriars, Specsavers, and Kent Libraries to select winners.

To submit a nomination visit the Kent Literacy Awards website. Nominations can only be made online.

To submit child book reviews post these to: KM Charity Team, Gazette House, 58 Estuary View Business Park, Boorman Way, Whitstable, Kent CT5 3SE.

Nominations and book reviews must be received by noon on 1 May.

Contact Details

Simon Dolby
Telephone: 07989 164752
Email: sdolby@thekmgroup.co.uk