An evaluation of the XXX programme: Examining implementation and effectiveness

The present study describes the initial evaluation of the XXX programme, a programme co-created (by researchers, teachers, other professionals, and with child input) designed to increase children’s (aged 8-11) reading motivation and engagement. The evaluation was conducted in four UK primary schools (three England, one Scotland: 19 classes) with data from 425 children and seven teachers. The evaluation focused on implementation (i.e., programme acceptability and feasibility) and effectiveness (using a mixed methods approach). Teachers’ perspectives of implementation were generally very positive, however, teachers were unable to deliver the programme for the required duration each week. For effectiveness, no statistically significant increases in reading motivation or engagement were found for the entire sample of children; however a clear positive trend was found for children starting the programme with low reading engagement (n = 59). In addition, qualitative insights from teachers and children suggested positive intermediate outcomes arising as a result of the programme.