Washington teacher launches project to encourage young readers with first sessions taking place this May half term

A Washington-based English teacher of more than 30 years is encouraging the joy of reading in young people after launching a book awareness project which will begin this May half term.
Julia Burke with local author Rikki Robertson and his daughterJulia Burke with local author Rikki Robertson and his daughter
Julia Burke with local author Rikki Robertson and his daughter

Julia Burke, 58, has worked as an English teacher for 36 years and has recently launched the ‘Washington Loves Books’ group to help encourage reading for young people in the area.

The group will be holding their first events aimed at young people during May half term which will include book hunts, story sessions and a visit from local author Rikki Robertson.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The sessions will be aimed at all school age children and young people and will take place in Washington Village, being supported by Washington Library, The Green and The Forge.

Founder of Washington Loves Books, Julia, said: “I love books and I know from past experience as a teacher how much of a disadvantage children who have a lesser vocabulary and read less can be at. Encouraging young people to read is really important and can have a massive impact on their lives.

“It’ll be a great time and we’re looking forward to having some fun whilst encouraging young people to improve their literacy skills in a relaxed, fun environment.”

The group will meet on Tuesday, June 2, and Wednesday, June 3, with two sessions per day taking place from 11am-12.30pm and 2pm-3.30pm.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The sessions will also include a drink and cake for adults as well as juice, a biscuit and a free book to take home for young readers.

Julia worked as an English teacher at Washington school St Roberts of Newminster for 25 years before teaching abroad and now works at Seaham High School.

Stressing the importance of reading, Julia is hopeful the group will help young people to keep reading while not at school and is already planning future sessions for the summer six weeks holiday.

Sessions will be taking place outside at the Washington Village green, or in case of bad weather inside The Forge.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A small fee will be required to cover refreshment costs and to reserve a space, visit the Washington Loves Books Facebook group.

Read More
Leisure centre, food court and department stores: What you want to see at Sunder...

Support your Echo and become a subscriber today. Enjoy unlimited access to local news, the latest on SAFC and new puzzles every day. With a digital subscription, you can see fewer ads, enjoy faster load times, and get access to exclusive newsletters and content. Click here to subscribe.

Related topics: