We currently have a group of QASMT students volunteering their time for the student2student literacy program.
The student2student program works by matching students who need to improve their reading with peer buddies (our QASMT Students) who help and encourage them with their reading. Peer support is central to the program's success. Evidence indicates that one of the best ways to support students who have reading difficulties is for the help to come from others near their own age.
Each student and buddy receives an identical book pack from The Smith Family. The reading buddy then telephones the student two to three times a week for at least 20 minutes, over an 18 week period. The student reads to the buddy, who uses the skills learnt in their training to assist the student with their reading and offer encouragement and praise. The buddy keeps a simple record of each phone call and reports progress to a Volunteer Supervisor fortnightly.