Julia loves spreading joy of reading books
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.
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 held their first events aimed at young people during May half term which included book hunts, story sessions and a visit from local author Rikki Robertson.
The sessions was be aimed at all school-age children and young people and will took 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 sessions included 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.
A small fee will be required to cover refreshment costs and to reserve a space, visit the Washington Loves Books Facebook group.