Thousands of Peterborough families were able to pick up more than their shopping in the city centre over the summer holidays by visiting a Pop-up Literacy Hub which was open for five weeks.
Aiming to boost literacy levels in the city, the space was a result of an innovative partnership between the National Literacy Trust Hub in Peterborough, City College Peterborough, Peterborough City Council and supported by other local organisations.
The temporarily empty shop unit on Bridge Street was transformed into a buzzing hive of literacy activity which was visited by more than 2,840 children, parents and members of the community. Over 6,000 books were given to families to take home after they spent time immersed in storytelling and arts and craft activities, as well as healthy eating workshops.
There were plenty of opportunities to talk with staff from the various organisations who shared information on literacy, including tips on encouraging children to read more, details of library membership and courses and activities available across the city.
We have really enjoyed visiting this fun space every week which has allowed us to spend quality time together sharing stories and taking part in the great selection of activities. One of my sons has had such a great time here that he has been asking when the next one will be!
Robina Rashad, mother to four children aged 6 to 12
I'm so proud of Peterborough for making this inspiring initiative possible. It was fantastic to meet so many families who were enjoying the Pop-up's fun festival atmosphere. The National Literacy Trust Hub in Peterborough is all about harnessing the assets and talents within businesses, organisations and service providers in the area, so it's been fantastic to see people from all corners of the city working together to celebrate literacy with such dedication
Sally Atkinson, Manager of the National Literacy Trust Hub in Peterborough
We're delighted that this year's Pop-up Literacy Hub in Peterborough has been such a tremendous success. We're proud to support the National Literacy Trust Hub in Peterborough's work to extend the reach of literacy support in the area and we're looking forward to see what our partnership can achieve next!
Councillor John Holdich, eader of the Council and Cabinet Member for Education, Skills, and University, and Communications
I am delighted that this initiative has been so successful. It is great to hear all the positive feedback from parents and the community and that we could make a difference in delivering this project to the levels of literacy throughout the city. The dedication from all those involved has been a welcoming site and I thank everyone who has taken the time to engage with this initiative and make it a success
Pat Carrington, Principal of City College Peterborough
The pop-up literacy shop was run by a large team of volunteers from City College Peterborough who co-ordinated the activities with staff from Peterborough's Barnardo's Children's centres, Spurgeons Children's Centres, Boots Opticians, Vivacity, Peterborough City Council and the National Literacy Trust.