A free summer reading programme hosted at a Devonshire school has celebrated its second year in operation.

The Bermuda Education Network partnered with Somersfield Academy to deliver another round of its Fortitude Re Summer Learning Programme, spanning three weeks and catering to 44 P3 pupils.

The school donated space for one-on-one reading tutoring, art enrichment and outdoor play.

Kristen Scott Ndiaye, Somersfield’s development and marketing manager, said the school took “great pride” in contributing to the broader community as well as furnishing staff with professional development.

She said: “This collaboration has brought new insights, students and fresh perspectives to our campus, enabling us to fulfil our vision of fostering an inclusive community that nurtures socially conscious, independent learners.”

The programme is expected to continue and potentially expand in coming years, she added, delivering intervention and expert guidance, with the costs covered by Fortitude Re.

Children taking part were recommended by teachers, principals and reading specialists, BEN founder and executive director Rebecca Ausenda said.

The programme boosts their foundational reading skills to keep youngsters from falling behind in their overall learning.

Kelly Rodday, BEN’s learning programme director and a primary teacher at Somersfield, said the team of 11 reading tutors, four classroom teachers and six interns were given professional development training ahead of the programme by Natalie Roberts, deputy principal and reading specialist at St George’s Prep.

Ashley Phipps, Danielle Tannock, Judith Bartley, Caroline Araujo and former Somersfield teacher Deonaé Dickinson are contributing as classroom teachers and one-on-one tutors, with Somersfield alumna Morgan Kempe returning.

Pupils complete the programme and a report is shared with their schools to support them in the coming academic year.

Details are available at the BEN website.