BOOKWORMS have been raiding the shelves in a readathon designed to help typhoon victims in Asia.
Darlington College of Mathematics and Science students took part in a sponsored quiz based on the books they have read as part of the Accelerated Reader programme.
Hundreds of pounds were expected to be raised for the victims of Typhoon Haiyan which rampaged through the Philippines last month affecting the lives of millions and killing thousands.
DSMS introduced Accelerated Reader to boost literacy levels in the school. It has proved successful in raising the reading age of students by several years in a matter of months by assessing ability, recommending appropriate literature and testing students on what they have read.
Accelerated Reader manager Tina Gray said: “We were contacted by the programme operator to take part in the fundraiser for the Philippines and were delighted to help.
“Our librarians spearheaded the contest but all year groups took part by reading as much as they could and completing the corresponding on-line quizzes. Donations will be made to the Philippines appeal based on how many were completed.”
Olivia Smith, 12, said: “When we saw what had happened to the people of the Philippines we felt awful. So many people died and those left had nothing, not even food. We wanted to do something to help.”
Head teacher Calvin Kipling added: “This is another example of the calibre of student we have at DSMS. They are always the first to help when someone is in need and by competing in the Accelerated Reader challenge have actually helped themselves as well.”
