Robert Miles Infant School in Bingham – part of Nova Education Trust – recently took part in a sponsored read and raised a staggering £1,600.
The sponsored read was linked to the popular celebration of World Book Day but this year the school’s English and Key Stage One Lead, Rosie Pilborough, was keen to do something different to their usual purchase of books.
She decided to purchase Toniebox headphones and captivating Tonie characters for each classroom.
Toniebox is an audio player that ignites children’s creativity with adventurous storytelling, songs, podcasts and lullabies, with the option to record and play your own content.
Rosie Pilborough said “When researching into what to purchase for the school I came across Tonieboxes.
“There is an abundance of research highlighting the importance of children having opportunities to listen to storytelling and other audio in a multitude of ways.
“I am so pleased that we’ve been able to provide our children with a valuable resource which increases their vocabulary, develops their comprehension and contributes to instilling a love of reading.
“This links to one of our Whole School Promises which is ‘reading at the heart of everything we do’.”
With reports stating that Toniebox can boost children’s speech and cognitive development and advance language learning, literacy and socio-emotional knowledge, Robert Miles Infant School’s decision to invest in technology to actively encourage young readers imaginations was a well-thought-out idea which the pupils are enjoying using.
Rosie, aged 7, said: “I like how there are stories and songs on them, and you can tap the box to change the track.”
Six-year-old Theo said: “I like the Gruffalo because it’s my favourite TV programme and now I can listen to it. They have jokes on them too and they are so funny.”
The Toniebox is not just for storytelling, songs, and jokes, they have facts too.
It’s something five-year-old Thea found out whilst using it. She said” “I like that it can tell us lots of real facts like did you know that a herd of zebras is called a dazzle? I’m so happy we’ve got a Toniebox.”
Kelly Ryan, Headteacher at the school, said: “For the past few years, the children have taken part in a sponsored read every March to coincide with World Book Day.
“Each year, we have been amazed at the effort our children and their families have made to support the school and this year the children raised an impressive £1,601.59 in total.
“We usually spend the money on books and so it’s great to be able to invest in something a bit different that will still contribute to the school’s quality of provision.
“On behalf of the school, I would like to say a huge thank you to all our families for such a successful fundraising effort.”
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