Read to Feed is simple to run! Order a pack, then follow these steps to get your class hungry for books…
1. Decide how long your scheme will last
We recommend a minimum of a school term to get the maximum benefit out of the scheme. Read to Feed can be run at any time of year, but it ties in well with National Children's Book Week (normally in October).
2. Decide how many books your pupils must read to qualify for each sticker
There are ten stickers in all. You can award stickers for every two books or each book read, depending on a child's reading ability.
3. Put together your reading list
Try to include stories and information about Africa, different cultures, animals, recycling and gardening. Our suggested Booklist will get you started, or use books from your school or local library.
4. Print off and photocopy forms
Start by sending a letter to parents/carers (PDF) to let them know what your planning to do, then print out sponsor forms (PDF) for each child and make sure you have been sent enough bookmarks and animal stickers for your group.
5. Introduce Send a Cow
To help launch your scheme, why not invite a free speaker to come and talk about Send a Cow. Use the booking form (PDF) or call us on 01225 874222 to book a speaker.
The fun animation and PowerPoint on the resources page will get you started! You could also give pupils time to explore our award-winning kids' site www.cowforce.com to learn about life in Africa and our work.
6. Begin the scheme
Talk with your pupils more about the work of Send a Cow, what the issues are in Africa and what they can do to help. At www.cowfiles.com you can find lesson plans, PowerPoints, images and many other supporting materials. Spend some time with the children, talking about what kind of support the money you raise could provide for poor African farmers using the Send a Cow Gifts website to help you.
7. Get Sponsorship
From the beginning of the scheme the children can begin asking family and friends to sponsor them for each book, using their sponsorship form.
8. Give out stickers
As books are read, the child gets their record card signed by yourself or a parent/carer and a sticker is rewarded.
9. Collect up the sponsorship money
At the end of the allotted time, the total amount raised by your group can be calculated. Remember to send in your money within a month to ensure it starts making a difference in Africa as soon as possible.
10. Get a big thank you!
At the end of the scheme, you can award your pupils by printing out the certificate included on the disk. And once we have received the money you have raised for Send a Cow, we'll send you a special Read to Feed certificate for your school!
