Timeless Reading

In the heart of Wolverhampton, a 91-year-old former teacher named Diana Iddles has embarked on an extraordinary journey to nurture young minds and instill a love for reading in children. Through an online platform, she dedicates her time and expertise to help five pupils improve their literacy skills. Despite her age and the challenges of the modern world, Diana's passion for teaching has not waned. Instead, it burns brighter than ever, and she considers her volunteering work as both a privilege and a gift.

The Charitable Endeavor

Diana Iddles is part of the Bookmark Reading Charity, an organization that matches trained volunteers with primary school children struggling with reading. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the charity utilizes technology to address the desperate need for its services. Armed with a kit that allows her to host sessions from her living room, Diana creates a virtual learning environment that fosters growth and learning.

The charity's mission is crucial, as statistics reveal that in an average state school class, eight children leave primary school unable to read well. The pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis have further exacerbated the situation, particularly for pupils from disadvantaged communities.

A Calling to Teach

For Diana, becoming a teacher was a lifelong dream. She recalls her earliest memory of reading, deciding at the tender age of five that she would dedicate her life to education. However, her own journey to literacy was not without challenges. Diana went to school unable to read because her parents were instructed not to teach her. Yet, her determination prevailed, and she became a teacher, impacting the lives of countless students throughout her career.

Finding Purpose After Loss

When Diana's husband passed away, she felt a profound void in her life. The grief was overwhelming, and she struggled to find meaning in her days. That was until she discovered the Bookmark Reading Charity and decided to sign up as a volunteer in 2021. Since then, she has conducted over 230 reading sessions, each one a testament to her enduring commitment to education.

"I had to try and fill my time with something instead of spending all my time moping," Diana explains. Through her selfless act of giving back, she has discovered renewed purpose and a sense of fulfillment in making a difference in the lives of children.

Nurturing the Joy of Learning

One of her pupils, nine-year-old Angie, moved to the UK from Central America three years ago, unable to speak English. With Mrs. Iddles' patient guidance, Angie has not only learned to read but has also discovered the joy of books. Their shared passion for reading about space and the environment has created a strong bond between them.

"I really do get as much enjoyment out of the sessions as the children, and in some ways more," Diana admits. Her compassion and dedication have left an indelible impact on the children she teaches.

A Plea for More Volunteers

The Bookmark Reading Charity's work is vital, but the demand for its services is overwhelming. Currently, about 2,000 volunteers work with approximately 200 schools across the country. Nevertheless, the charity urgently needs more people to come forward and offer their time and expertise.

"We would love for next September to feel very different," says Graihagh Crawshaw, the charity's chief executive. By recruiting more volunteers, the charity can expand its reach and positively impact the lives of even more children in need.

Diana Iddles' dedication to teaching and her commitment to nurturing young readers exemplify the power of compassion and the lasting impact one individual can have on a community. At 91 years old, she is a testament to the belief that age is no barrier to making a difference. Through the power of education, Diana continues to bring hope, joy, and transformation to young minds, enriching the lives of children and inspiring us all to contribute to the betterment of society.