Encouraging reading*

We funded more than 3,300 books and over 30 reading events for over 2,000 children at 16 schools.

Schoolchildren celebrating World Book Day

This was part of our ongoing support for the National Literacy Trust’s Reading Is Fundamental initiative.

We selected schools near to Fort Kinnaird Shopping Park in Edinburgh, Teesside Shopping Park in Stockton-on-Tees and St Stephen’s Shopping Centre in Kingston-upon-Hull. By supporting local schools we generate goodwill and positive publicity that encourages people to visit our retail properties, driving retail performance and enhancing our reputation.

In Scotland, the team also worked with an afterschool program for pupils who are often from the neediest of homes, where parents work extended hours to provide for their family’s basic needs. 20 children enjoyed attending a book signing by Scottish Olympic star, Chris Hoy.

Volunteers from British Land and Broadgate Estates continued to provide reading support at Netley Primary School near to Regent’s Place in London NW1. Six children from the school enjoyed a visit to our Head Office in London W1, York House, to round off the academic year.

* All numbers as at 28 February 2009

 

Our support enabled the National Literacy Trust to run a series of events to inspire children with a love for reading.

 

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  • This has been an absolutely fantastic treat for everyone involved. There’s been a real buzz about reading at St David’s as a result of our event. It was a superb day for everyone involved and the children still talk about it, even a term later. Terrific.
    Rosemary McMillan, Headteacher at St David’s Primary School in Edinburgh
  • It was amazing. Even the older children, who I thought might be reluctant to get involved, got caught up in choosing books. Nobody opted out, and it was a great reminder to the adults present of the power and motivation of reading and books.
    Alma Cope, Family-Based Care Services Team in Edinburgh
  • We all dressed up as characters from a book which caused great hilarity and we had a fashion show and prizes for the children who dressed up… In the afternoon the children came to our 'bookstall' and chose themselves a book - the look on their faces when they found out it was theirs to keep was brilliant - I wished I had videoed it! Rachel Wilkes, Teacher at Clifton Primary in Kingston-upon-Hull
 

For our full Corporate Responsibility Report: britishland.com/crReport/2009