HFL Education and Hon. Stuart Lawrence join forces to improve reading standards
We were delighted that the Hon. Stuart Lawrence joined us as a supporter on the KS2 Reading Fluency Project in the Autumn term 2023.
Stuart is passionate about ensuring that all children, regardless of background, have access to quality education and equal opportunities.
“Delighted to be involved in this amazing initiative and I cannot wait to see the impact it has for young people nationally.”
The project, which is now in its 18th round, has an average outcome of 2 years and 3 months progress in reading comprehension.
Those who joined us for the Reading Fluency Project in the autumn had the opportunity to ‘meet’ Stuart Lawrence at a digital twilight session in October 2023. Stuart introduced his book and shared an extract that participants could use as one of their project texts.
Hon. Stuart Lawrence
Stuart Lawrence is a British educator, author, entrepreneur and activist who promotes equality, diversity, and inclusion in education.
Stuart was inspired to become an advocate for justice and equality after the tragic murder of his younger brother Stephen Lawrence, in a racially motivated attack in 1993.
Stuart has become a prominent voice, appearing on various media outlets, including BBC News, Sky News, and Channel 4, to discuss issues of race and education.
Bio
2003: Became a teacher in a secondary school in South London.
2019: Published his first book, “Silence is Not an Option: You Can Impact the World for Change” (Chosen project reading. See below for more information).
2020: Stuart launched his consultancy, Inclusive Exchange Ltd which provides training and support to schools, educators, and businesses on diversity, inclusion, and anti-racism issues.
2021: Received a Special Recognition Award from the MBCC awards.
2022: Awarded an Honorary doctorate by Greenwich University.
2023: Recognised as one of The Big Issue: Change Makers of 2023: Education, people that are using the power of learning to help others find their place in the world.
Through Stuart’s work in education and activism, he has inspired and empowered countless individuals to take action to address issues of racism and inequality. His message of hope, courage, and resilience inspires and motivates people worldwide.
Project reading
We have selected an extract from Stuart Lawrence’s book, 'Silence is Not An Option: You Can Impact the World for Change' for use on the KS2 Reading Fluency Project.
In his book, Stuart talks about what he has learned from life and shares insight into the tools that have helped him live positively and kept him moving forwards when times have been tough.
Written for younger readers (aged 10+), the book aims to help them find their own voice and work towards a better future.
Reading Fluency Project outcomes
The exceptional progress that can be achieved in just 8 weeks, is evident in this video of a year 2 pupil, from English Martyrs' Catholic Primary School, reading before and after the school’s involvement in the project.
How to book
The Key Stage 2 (KS2) Reading Fluency project commences at the start of every term.
Please email the project delivery team for further details: reading.fluency@hfleducation.org or book your place via the HFL Education Hub.
Banner photo of Hon. Stuart Lawrence: photographer Simon Frederik.
