A historic North East library was transformed into a vibrant celebration of reading and learning at a special event.
Pupils from Hemlington Hall Academy enjoyed a day of storytelling and exploration at Middlesbrough Central Library, supported by Middlesbrough College’s childcare students and organised by the National Literacy Trust.
The event marked the culmination of a six-month project delivered by the National Literacy Trust in partnership with Middlesbrough College.
Sixty Early Years and Teaching Assistant students from the college took part in workshops focused on the value of stories and the importance of reading for pleasure.
Kay Braithwaite, chair of governors at Hemlington Hall Academy, said: "The children had the unique opportunity to meet students from Middlesbrough College and share a variety of lovely books with them.
"This inspiring interaction allowed the children to enjoy the stories and resources and it provided the college students with the chance to observe first-hand how the children engaged with their work – thus perfectly illustrating the importance of quality reading materials for early years children.
"I think the visit was best summed up by Zac who said, 'I don’t want to leave.'"
Students were trained as volunteer Literacy Champions, equipping them to promote early language development in nurseries, pre-schools, and within their own communities.
Charlotte Hindmarsh, Foundation T-Level Early Years and Education programme lead at Middlesbrough College, said the experience was equally valuable for those delivering the activities.
Ms Hindmarsh said: "The National Literacy Trust event was a genuinely enriching experience for both staff and students.
"The children’s enthusiasm was wonderful to see, and the students clearly recognised the real-world impact of their work.
"This project has strengthened their practical skills, boosted their confidence and deepened their awareness of the importance of high quality early language experiences."
To support the visit, students created ‘story sacks’ packed with books and playful learning materials for the children to enjoy.
Allison Potter, manager of the National Literacy Trust in Middlesbrough, said: "We know that early years staff have a vital role to play in developing the early speech, language and communication skills of young children.
"They also are brilliantly placed to empower parents and families to continue this development at home.
"Events like this are wonderful for embedding reading and stories at the heart of childcare and early years settings.
"We’re proud of this partnership, helping our town’s future nursery and pre-school practitioners grow a generation of readers in Middlesbrough."
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The visit allowed college students to put their training into practice by engaging directly with nursery-aged children, while also presenting their work to Early Years practitioners.
Through playful interaction and shared reading, the day highlighted the importance of strong early literacy experiences for lifelong learning.
As newly trained Literacy Champions, the students will promote reading and language development with children in nurseries, pre-schools, at college and even at home with their own families and friends.
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