PRESS RELEASE

14/07/2005

Three northside schools get literacy summer camps - Kelleher

Cork North-Central Fianna Fáil TD Billy Kelleher has said children aged seven and 11 years who have difficulty reading now have a chance to develop their skills after literacy summer camps were set up in three schools in the northside.

Scoil Iosagáin and Scoil Aiséirí Chríost in Farranree and St Mary’s On The Hill in Knocknaheeny will host the summer camps aimed at developing students’ literacy and thinking skills through fun activities such as art, dance, music and drama.

‘These summer camps give children exciting opportunities to develop their self-esteem, motivation, imagination, concentration and discipline. The most important part of the project is that the emphasis throughout is on fun learning and creative arts,’ said the Dillon’s Cross-based Fianna Fáil TD.

Deputy Kelleher said children who may find it hard to learn to read through conventional methods could experience a breakthrough when that task is approached using drama, movement, dance and music.

‘I would urge parents whose children may be experiencing literacy difficulties to bring them to these summer camps. Apart from the obvious educational gain, they are good social forums where children can mix and develop their interpersonal skills,’ said Deputy Kelleher.

The summer camps have been organised and funded by the Department of Education and  Science.

ENDS