Bradley finds learning is more fun with a friend

Students on programs

09 January 2023

Just two years’ ago, 12-year-old Bradley had a very different view of reading than he does today. He was struggling with his reading at school and was several levels below his peers.

This all changed when Bradley’s teacher saw the opportunity for him to join The Smith Family’s student2student program. The program pairs students up with a volunteer student buddy who reads with them to improve their reading skills, aiming to address the reading gap for children from families experiencing disadvantage.

Research has shown that the literacy foundation built by children in their early years is crucial to their future educational success.

At first, he wasn’t sure about it. But Bradley built up the courage and discovered that the key to his reading success was getting to know his buddy and having a bit of fun with reading. As his enthusiasm grew, he found the learning part happened naturally.

“The program is actually fun. And I got to know my buddy – Mimi was really nice. I had a lot in common with her. We both have siblings and pets, and we both like sport,” Bradley beams. “I was more confident reading with her. It was good because the buddies are a similar age to you.”

Bradley’s mum Danielle says the program has helped Bradley develop an excitement for reading.

“He found it much easier to do student2student because it was with another child. If I sat him down to read, he’d grumble. But with his buddy he always looked forward to it," says Danielle.

On top of discovering a love for reading, taking part in student2student has helped Bradley move up three reading levels, has improved his confidence in English and has helped him to become an independent reader.

His reading has improved a lot on his latest report. He loved it so much he wants to do it again.

Danielle, mum of student2student participant Bradley

“Bradley’s fluency and confidence has improved while doing the program, he picks up a book and reads it now,” says Danielle.

“His reading improved a lot on his latest report. He loved it so much he wants to do it again.” These days, no one has to tell Bradley to read. He’s a passionate page turner and loves to find new treasures at the street library whenever he gets the chance.

As part of the student2student program, Bradley’s become an independent reader on par with his peers, and he couldn’t be more proud.

Taking part in student2student has boosted Bradley’s literacy skills and has built a great educational foundation for his future.

Bradley finds learning is more fun with a friend

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