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Reading support helps Aleya get ahead

22 May 2025

When 11-year-old Aleya started missing school because of health issues, everything became a little harder. Being unwell kept her at home more often than most kids, and no matter how hard her mum Rebecca tried to give her everything she needed, it was tough for Aleya to keep up – especially with reading. To make this harder, the family was also facing financial struggles that added to the pressure.

Then the school reached out to Rebecca about The Smith Family. Rebecca knew it could be a great opportunity for Aleya and eagerly signed up, hopeful it might lift some of the weight they’d been carrying.

That’s when things really started to shift.

In Year 3, Aleya joined the Learning for Life program and got matched with a sponsor. Suddenly, the little things that used to be out of reach – like proper school supplies or uniforms – weren’t such a big worry. Even better, Aleya and Rebecca were introduced to Liz, her Learning for Life Coordinator. Liz helped them access extra learning support that helped Aleya overcome the challenges financial disadvantage had put in her way.

Before sponsorship, Rebecca always tried to make sure Aleya had everything she needed for school, but sometimes it meant choosing the more economical option, even if it didn’t last. Now, with the support she receives through sponsorship, she can buy school shirts that last longer, along with books and stationery. The financial support of sponsorship can also help students be a part of memorable school moments – like wearing the special senior school shirt. Rebeca now has hers ready to go for next year!

But most importantly, with generosity from a sponsor like you, Aleya was able to access our learning programs and get the support all students need to improve their reading

When Aleya got the chance to join the student2student reading program, she was excited about the chance to try something new. The program matched her with an older student buddy, and she quickly got into it. ‘Oh yeah, I’ll give it a shot,’ she said. The student2student digital model enables students to connect using a website called Chatty Kids. Students read eBooks provided on the site and use the Voice over IP function to speak to their Buddy. With her buddy’s help, Aleya became more confident and started reading bigger words with ease. The program gave her the help she needed to catch up and immerse herself in the joy of reading again.

Now in Year 5, Aleya is thriving thanks to the support of a sponsor like you.

Thanks to the programs your support makes possible Aleya is seeing her hard work rewarded. Her reading skills, confidence and motivation have improved, and she is enjoying school so much more. Aleya even hopes to become a reading buddy herself one day to help others. Rebecca couldn’t be prouder. Every parent dreams of their child chasing big goals, but sometimes kids need that extra support to believe those dreams are possible. And that’s exactly what sponsorship provides.

Thank you for all you do as a sponsor!

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Reading support helps Aleya get ahead

But most importantly, with generosity from a sponsor like you, Aleya was able to access our learning programs and get the support all students need to improve their reading

Now in Year 5, Aleya is thriving thanks to the support of a sponsor like you.

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