Carlow Primary Schools Invited to Join Inspiring Literacy Initiative

Primary schools across County Carlow are invited to participate in an inspiring literacy initiative designed to spark creativity and foster a love of reading and writing among young people.

The Right to Read Programme, coordinated by Carlow County Council – Economic Development & Library Service, in partnership with Carlow County Development Partnership, Carlow College, St. Patrick’s, and Carlow Kilkenny Skillnet, is now in its third year and is set to engage 4th, 5th, and 6th class students in a fun and meaningful way.

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This year, the programme includes an exciting Short Story Competition with the theme “My Favourite Local Business.” To further inspire imagination and self-expression, pupils are also invited to reflect on additional questions, with 4th class asked “Who’s your favourite author?”, 5th class asked “What do you want to be when you grow up?”, and 6th class asked “What’s your favourite place or thing to do in Carlow?”

A total prize fund of €3,000 is available, including a €1,000 top prize for the best school entry. Prizes will also be awarded to the top two individual entries in each class category, and every participating student will receive a certificate recognizing their creativity and effort.

The closing date for entries is 25th October 2025, with the prize-giving ceremony taking place on 13th November 2025.

Speaking about the initiative, Cllr. Daniel Pender, Leas Cathaoirleach of Carlow County Council, said:

“The Right to Read Programme is a fantastic way to engage our young people in literacy while also celebrating our local community and businesses. Encouraging students to tell their own stories helps build confidence, creativity, and pride in their place. We are delighted to continue this initiative and look forward to reading the imaginative entries from across the county.”

Kieran Comerford, Head of Economic Development & Enterprise with Carlow County Council, added:

“Literacy is a fundamental life skill and a cornerstone of personal, social, and economic development. Through the Right to Read Programme, we are not only promoting reading and writing in a fun and engaging way but also building stronger connections between our schools, families, and communities. We are excited to see how this year’s theme – celebrating local businesses – will inspire students’ creativity.”

John Shortall, County Librarian with Carlow County Council, commented:

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“The library service is at the heart of literacy support in County Carlow, and we are proud to play a leading role in the Right to Read initiative. By encouraging children to explore their ideas and imagination through storytelling, we are laying the foundations for a lifelong love of reading. This competition is a wonderful opportunity for young people to connect with their community while developing vital literacy skills.”

As part of a national framework for literacy support, the Right to Read Campaign reinforces reading development and supports learning both in and beyond the classroom. It aligns with national strategies such as Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) and early childhood education programmes, offering continuity and targeted assistance for children, families, and adults with lower literacy levels.

Carlow County Council, through its library and enterprise services, works with schools and community partners to strengthen literacy supports and promote the value of lifelong learning.

Teachers, parents, and schools can access full competition details and a short explainer video to support participation. Entry forms have been circulated to schools and can also be requested if additional copies are required.

For more information, please contact Lisa Hutton, Carlow Local Enterprise Office, at huttonl@carlowcoco.ie or 059 912 9783.