A recent report created by the National Literacy Trust found that rate of children and young people who say they enjoy reading is the lowest it has been in 20 years. According to the report only 1 in 3 children and young people aged 8 to 18 said that they enjoyed reading in their free time in 2025, marking a 36% decrease in reading enjoyment levels since the survey has commenced 2005.
This issue is not unique to the UK, with reports coming from the United States indicating that over 40% of 4th graders and 28% of adults (ages 16-65) are below basic proficiency.
In order to bridge the gap, investment must be made into promoting literacy in schools and the local community.
How to encourage reading in early childhood
Literacy skills and the love for reading develops in early childhood as children are exposed to stories. Schools and local communities should put an emphasis on introducing reading to children early on, so they develop this skill as they grow.
This can be done through hosting activities such as “Rhyme Time” and “Story Time” that support speech, language, and communication development in young children, or by introducing parents to book-sharing techniques to help them create a stronger home learning environment.
The importance of libraries
Libraries are a hub of reading and learning. They help to introduce reading to children from a very early age and can support parents and educators in encouraging reading through a range of avenues.
Local libraries provide a universal access to reading, allowing individuals to borrow books reducing the financial burden purchasing books can cause. Additionally, libraries can provide resources for parents to help them introduce their children to the joys of reading.
Libraries in schools support educators in providing pupils with an abundance of reading materials in easy access. Additionally, school Librarians act as additional educators supporting pupils in developing their reading skills and guiding them through their educational journey.
Library, Information & Archive Services (LIAS) Apprenticeship Level 3
Library, Information & Archive Services (LIAS) assistants provide a huge support to libraries through the private and public sector. They help to information challenges, understand the diverse needs of users and connect people with the knowledge they seek.
This funded training programme helps LIAS assistants to grow their skills and help develop reading resources and promote literacy.
Learn more about the Level 3 LIAS programme.
Case study: LIAS Apprentice Develops Inclusive Learning Materials
Olga Naden is LIAS apprentice with LMP Education working at Lostock High School. Through her apprenticeship, Olga has transformed the school’s library through securing equipment and funding. This has allowed her to introduce an ePlatform where eBooks can be accessed in a variety of formats and languages to support SEND students and EAL students. Olga has also developed and leads the school debate club, encouraging students to develop key research and conversational skills.
Develop literacy skills in your organisation
LMP Education is an award-winning apprenticeship training provider that supports the education sector. We deliver a Level 3 LIAS Apprenticeship programme as well as a range of other educational apprenticeships.
Through targeted training that’s focused on promoting literacy and supporting pupils, organisations can help to tackle the literacy crisis and reignite the love for learning in young people.
If you are interested in utilising apprenticeships to develop skills without your team, book a discovery call with the LMP team today!
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