Philanthropy Executive of

The Readings Foundation’s support of Ardoch has enabled us to train and place volunteers to help to develop disadvantaged children’s literacy in schools and early childhood centres. These ‘Reading Buddies’ work to develop the children’s love of books and reading the written word for both enjoyment and enrichment, which in turns develops their literacy and oral language skills. This is the foundation for all learning and has long-term impact on improving children’s educational outcomes.

When describing their work, one volunteer said, “The joy I get from the enthusiasm that these kids have for reading is only surpassed by seeing the improvement in reading skills and confidence after only five or six weeks.”

These wonderful volunteers help with reading and literacy in the classroom and reading enrichment activities, such as literacy-themed excursions. Recent excursions include visits to the State Library of Victoria, when children from Seaford Park Primary School were able to explore the Readings store and were delighted by the range of children’s books on display.

We also took young children to see Possum Magic - The Musical at Gasworks Arts Park in Port Melbourne. Possum Magic is one the children’s favourtie book during Ardoch’s ‘Play, Learn Read’ sessions and features on the Readings list of ‘30 Essential Picture Books’.

Ardoch’s Patron, Her Excellency the Honourable Quentin Bryce AC CVO, the Governor-General, recently visited Rupert Street Childcare Centre and Kindergarten to see Ardoch’s ‘Play, Learn, Read’ program in action and took her turn as a ‘Reading Buddy’. She chose to read Mem Fox’s new book Yoo-Hoo, Ladybird - it was a big hit with the children as they all swarmed around her to find the ladybirds on each page.

If you would be interested in becoming an Ardoch volunteer, please visit