Reading buddies in primary school is a program where older or more confident readers are paired with younger or less confident students to read together regularly.
How it works
Students are paired across different class levels
They meet weekly or fortnightly in the classroom or library.
The older buddy reads aloud, listens to the younger child read, and helps with difficult words.
They often talk about the story and look at pictures together.
Purpose
The main aim of reading buddies is to:
Improve reading skills
Build confidence
Encourage a love of books
Develop positive relationships between students
Benefits
For younger students:
Feel supported and less anxious about reading
Improve pronunciation and understanding
Gain motivation through encouragement
For older students:
Develop leadership and responsibility
Strengthen their own reading and communication skills
Build empathy and patience
