Menu
04/02/2002
Joined-up approach is key to improving local literacy levels
A report on literacy levels - highlighting problems faced by schools across Northern Ireland - has been published by the Belfast Education Library Board.
The report "Literacy in a Learning City", launched at the board's headquarters on Monday February 4 proposes a 'joined up approach' by educationalists and parents to tackle the lowest levels of literacy in Northern Ireland.
Among the report's 70 recommendations is the proposal to establish a “literacy forum” with key partners working together to develop a comprehensive citywide strategy for literacy in Belfast.
Speaking at the launch, David Cargo, chief executive of the Belfast Education and Library Board and chair of the board’s literacy steering group said the report provides for an integrated and cohesive approach to literacy levels. He said improving literacy levels was a "complex issue" with "no quick-fix solution."
At present in Northern Ireland, nearly a quarter of the adult population experiences difficulties in literacy. In Belfast, 12 per cent of young people leave school without a GCSE in English and there are increasing concerns about the deficit in the early literacy skills of a number of children arriving in nursery and primary schools.
The report stresses that in order for progress to continue, the board’s own services, community organisations, industry and further education colleges have to tackle literacy problems experienced by children, young people and adults together.
Mr Cargo concluded: “We will only see standards rise when there is a climate in which literacy is understood and valued and in which schools, parents, the board and its partners share responsibility for helping children to achieve their potential.” (AMcE)
The report "Literacy in a Learning City", launched at the board's headquarters on Monday February 4 proposes a 'joined up approach' by educationalists and parents to tackle the lowest levels of literacy in Northern Ireland.
Among the report's 70 recommendations is the proposal to establish a “literacy forum” with key partners working together to develop a comprehensive citywide strategy for literacy in Belfast.
Speaking at the launch, David Cargo, chief executive of the Belfast Education and Library Board and chair of the board’s literacy steering group said the report provides for an integrated and cohesive approach to literacy levels. He said improving literacy levels was a "complex issue" with "no quick-fix solution."
At present in Northern Ireland, nearly a quarter of the adult population experiences difficulties in literacy. In Belfast, 12 per cent of young people leave school without a GCSE in English and there are increasing concerns about the deficit in the early literacy skills of a number of children arriving in nursery and primary schools.
The report stresses that in order for progress to continue, the board’s own services, community organisations, industry and further education colleges have to tackle literacy problems experienced by children, young people and adults together.
Mr Cargo concluded: “We will only see standards rise when there is a climate in which literacy is understood and valued and in which schools, parents, the board and its partners share responsibility for helping children to achieve their potential.” (AMcE)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
10 September 2001
Report raises concerns over levels of adult literacy
SDLP member for East Derry, John Dallat, has voiced concerns about the local educational system in light of new data that shows Northern Ireland has one of the lowest levels of adult literacy in Europe.
Report raises concerns over levels of adult literacy
SDLP member for East Derry, John Dallat, has voiced concerns about the local educational system in light of new data that shows Northern Ireland has one of the lowest levels of adult literacy in Europe.
09 October 2013
NI Adult Literacy Improves Over Decade
Adult literacy levels in Northern Ireland have improved over the past decade, according to results released in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) International Survey of Adult Skills (ISAS) for Northern Ireland.
NI Adult Literacy Improves Over Decade
Adult literacy levels in Northern Ireland have improved over the past decade, according to results released in the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development’s (OECD) International Survey of Adult Skills (ISAS) for Northern Ireland.
08 September 2003
UK adults encouraged to read more
A new survey has revealed that a quarter of UK adults have not read a single book in the last 12 months. The figures, part of the National Reading Campaign's research into personal reading habits across the country, coincided with International Literacy Day on Monday.
UK adults encouraged to read more
A new survey has revealed that a quarter of UK adults have not read a single book in the last 12 months. The figures, part of the National Reading Campaign's research into personal reading habits across the country, coincided with International Literacy Day on Monday.
29 March 2006
£40m spend fails to raise literacy and numeracy standards
It has been revealed that significant numbers of Northern Ireland's children have not reached literacy and numeracy attainment targets set by the government.
£40m spend fails to raise literacy and numeracy standards
It has been revealed that significant numbers of Northern Ireland's children have not reached literacy and numeracy attainment targets set by the government.
05 December 2001
Province's students rate highly in survey of literacy levels
Results from a major international survey of student achievement show that the reading abilities of young students in Northern Ireland ranks alongside their counterparts in England and the Republic of Ireland.
Province's students rate highly in survey of literacy levels
Results from a major international survey of student achievement show that the reading abilities of young students in Northern Ireland ranks alongside their counterparts in England and the Republic of Ireland.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
