ARCh – Assisted Reading for Children

Inspiring a love of reading

Our vision is to inspire a love of reading in children from all of Oxfordshire’s communities, which will enhance their wellbeing and improve their life chances.

Who we are: Assisted Reading for Children (ARCh) helps pupils in Oxfordshire who struggle with their reading. We send trained volunteers into primary schools and aim to inspire in the children we see a love of reading. This will enhance their lives and improve their life chances.

Why we are needed: Oxfordshire has more than 16,000 children living in poverty; twelve of its wards are listed in the top 20% most disadvantaged nationally. Around 20% of children leave primary school with a reading level below expected and this has worsened following the pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis. In some areas of disadvantage this figure can be as high as 60%. This has an impact on children’s ability to learn across all subjects and severely affects their confidence.

How do we know it works: the schools we work with report dramatic improvements in reading ability and interest, comprehension, self-esteem, communication skills, and general attitude to school and learning.

Staff Vacancies

Interested in helping children develop a love of reading?

Please email info@archoxfordshire.org.uk for information


We have the following position available for someone living in Oxford.

Field Worker (Oxford City) home based

A confident ‘people person’, with a passion for books and education, you will provide support to ARCh Reading Helpers. The role involves visiting primary schools in Oxford and surrounding areas, liaising with school staff and ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Enthusiasm and good communication skills both written and verbal are vital - along with a commitment to our mission.

15 hours per week (to be worked across the week) term-time only.
Use of computer and own car essential (travel expenses paid).

Contact info@archoxfordshire.org.uk for an application form.
Applications will remain open until suitable candidate secured.

Vacancies subject to enhanced DBS check and references, as part of our commitment to safeguarding children.

The Queens Award for Voluntary Service