It Takes a Book Village to Raise Literacy Levels

South Africa’s Literacy Crisis

South Africa is experiencing a literacy crisis; over 80% of Grade 4 learners cannot read for meaning. Amidst overcrowded classrooms and limited resources, many children lack the individual attention needed to develop essential reading skills. For low-income schools, the challenge is even more significant, with a distressing lack of human connection in the learning-to-read process.

Founding Story

This unsettling reality catapulted Sarah Bradfield and Lauren Bradfield into founding Book Village, the only online tutoring platform in South Africa that connects foundation phase learners to volunteer tutors and a levelled reading series.

For many years, Sarah has volunteered in schools across low-income areas in South Africa. She started by teaching English and later established libraries, but soon recognised a deeper issue: most children were unable to read. This led her to focus on teaching reading. Lauren, a passionate and dedicated foundation phase teacher, accompanied Sarah on her mission. However, they quickly realised the need for more support, and a tech-enabled solution that allows every child to learn to read at their own level and pace with the support of dedicated tutors was born.

Book Village’s Solutions

Book Village addresses the literacy crisis by providing low-income schools with digital infrastructure and an online tutoring reading programme. Dedicated volunteer tutors engage in structured reading sessions, offering personalised guidance and encouragement to each child on their reading journey. This tailored approach empowers children to learn at their own pace, nurturing confidence, and mastery with every story they read.

Book Village's impact reaches far beyond the digital realm. The organisation understands the importance of community engagement and trains local members as facilitators within their partner schools. This creates a sense of ownership and support by encouraging a sense of pride and investment in the programme.

Moreover, Book Village acknowledges the power of high-quality reading materials to spark the imagination of young children. Through a strategic partnership with Oxford University Press, Book Village gives students access to the AWEH! Reading Series, a curated collection designed to inspire curiosity and exploration.

With over 130 volunteers worldwide and more than 2,000 children benefiting from the programme, Book Village is leading the way in the fight against illiteracy. Through individual support and access to quality resources, these children are being equipped to thrive in the future world of work.

As Book Village continues to expand its reach and impact, the journey towards a literate South Africa is far from over. With great dedication and a commitment to change, Book Village remains steadfast in its mission to empower every child with the transformative power of reading.

Useful links:

Volunteer with Book Village

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Book Village is part of the 2024 Injini Mastercard Foundation EdTech Fellowship Program.

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