McNair Helps Launch Reading Stars

Manchester United defender Paddy McNair is helping youngsters kick off a whole host of literacy challenges, as part of the Premier League’s annual Reading Stars campaign.

The 20-year old is helping primary school children across the country to tackle reading tasks in a nationwide initiative, which was launched as part of World Book Day.

As part of the campaign, all 20 Premier League clubs have a reading star, who sets challenges for youngsters, asking questions from extracts of their favourite books.

Premier League Reading Stars launches its 13th year with a brand new digital resource, which has 60 online challenges. The website www.extra-time.org can be used at school, in a library or at home, which means parents can get involved, too.

By completing literacy activities, participants can unlock exclusive rewards, including video clips of their heroes, signed certificates and player profiles. In addition to accessing the website and downloadable resources, teachers receive a box of books, National Literacy Trust Network membership, and a toolkit and physical resources to run 10 Premier League Reading Stars sessions. The sessions are designed for pupils aged between nine and 13, and each covers a different type or aspect of reading.

All players taking part in the campaign select their favourite book from their childhood, as well as a current book they are reading, with Paddy choosing Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Rio Ferdinand’s #2Sides autobiography.

Speaking of his involvement, McNair said: “Reading is so important for everybody in education, no matter what their age. I remember reading loads of great books throughout school and I still enjoy reading a good book. It’s great to be able to help encourage more young people to start reading.”

Last year, Premier League Reading Stars had a positive impact on both children’s reading enjoyment and attainment. In 2014/15, there was a 50% increase in the number of children who enjoy reading at the end of the programme (44% before, 66% afterwards). In the previous year, three out of four pupils’ reading levels increased by six months or more.