The Covid-19 pandemic has had numerous known consequences, but one less-discussed effect is the decline in high school literacy rates. This issue, already pressing in the UK, has reached a critical level due to the pandemic. To address this, Three Meem collaborated with a seasoned English Teacher, a GCSE tutor, and a Literacy Coordinator from a Secondary school to establish a programme for young people to sharpen their literacy abilities.

This curriculum involved exploring books identified as must-reads for ambitious young individuals. Spanning seven sessions, participants delved into the acclaimed book on persuasive techniques, “Influence” by Robert Cialdini. With guidance from our literacy specialist, students learned to distil critical points from intricate content and relay intricate thoughts to their fellow students. They read, discussed, and showcased their insights to the group each week. True literacy encompasses not just reading but also comprehending and articulating that comprehension. This literacy initiative was met with great enthusiasm, with an overwhelming interest in upcoming sessions. I was particularly struck by the eagerness of the students and their courage in presenting – a skill that will benefit them in their educational and career trajectories.

I strongly encourage everyone in our community to embrace reading. Notably, esteemed universities often prioritise applicants with solid literacy skills. Couple this with the profound positive effects of consistent reading on mental well-being, intelligence, and general knowledge, and reading becomes non-negotiable.