4-4-2 Reading Challenge

Raith Rovers inspire kids to net tickets by reading with the 4-4-2 Reading Challenge

Raith Rovers, SPFL Trust, Scottish Library and Information Council (SLIC), and Scotland’s libraries are taking part in the third year of the hugely successful 4-4-2 Reading Challenge.

This year’s initiative kicks-off during National Libraries Week 2020 which runs from 5 October to 10 October.

The Rovers are working in partnership with 14 SPFL clubs and local libraries, to deliver the 4-4-2 Reading Challenge which aims to inspire children aged 5-12 to read four books in exchange for match tickets.

The initiative centres on a reading “challenge card” which participating clubs and libraries will issue. For every book read, children will receive a stamp on their card.

When they have read four books, participants will receive a FREE match ticket for a home league match at Starks Park, while an accompanying adult will be able to purchase a discounted ticket.

Last season, more children took part in the challenge (+60%) more books were read (+38%) than the year before, a remarkable feat considering the programme ended early when the country went into lockdown.

In the second year of the project, over 204 libraries and 20 mobile libraries were involved, across 10 of Scotland’s thirty-two local authorities. There were also more than 18,000 pupils who took part, across 84 schools. In total, 3,516 books were issued and 468 match tickets allocated for books read.

The 2020 season will look to pick up on the upwards trend that it left off before lockdown.

Children (aged 5-12) are urged to read four books in exchange for a free child and discounted (minimum 20%) adult match ticket. These will be valid when supporters can safely return to watch games in stadia.

SPFL Trust chief executive Nicky Reid comments:

“Attainment is a key priority for the SPFL Trust, being one of five core pillars through which we work. The 4-4-2 Reading Challenge is a great way to inspire reluctant readers – particularly boys – to pick up a book and experience the fun and comfort that reading can provide.

“The motivation might initially be the opportunity to see their local SPFL club in action (when it is safe to do so), but we find many children start to realise the joy that comes from reading in itself. It’s about encouraging children to visit the library, to look at books, and to start to experience the magic!

“We’re grateful to the associated community trusts and clubs (ATCs) for their support, and for the support of our partners at the Scottish Library Information Council, who’s value insight helps us shape the challenge.”

Pamela Tulloch, chief executive at SLIC said:

“The 4-4-2 Reading Challenge is a fantastic initiative which encourages library members to further develop their reading skills while at the same time enjoying Scotland’s favourite game.

“Children and young people throughout Scotland can borrow books from their local library service in various ways – by visiting a library in person, using a Click & Collect service or downloading a library e-Book from the library website.

“The strong partnership between the SPFL Trust, the participation of the SPFL Clubs and Scottish public library services will boost attainment and reading skills.”

Paul Greig, Raith Rovers Community Foundation Development Manager added, “We are delighted to work with the SPFL Trust on this initiative for the season ahead. Football has the power to motivate and inspire all generations and any chance we have where we can combine football and education we are always keen to drive this for our local communities!”

Visit www.spfltrust.org.uk/442 for more information.

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