The Toe by Toe Project is a one-to-one literacy scheme in which prisoners teach other prisoners to read
In October 2000, HMP Wandsworth Prison Officer Neil Lodge launched the Toe by Toe project, a one-to-one literacy scheme managed by the Shannon Trust, in which prisoners teach other prisoners to read. More than 100 inmates have completed the course and have subsequently continued with further education.
Toe by Toe is a highly structured multi-sensory reading scheme developed by Keda Cowling. The rules are simple. Lessons must be given five times a week for no more than 20 minutes, one to one, and must follow the Toe by Toe reading manual (which is provided free by the Trust).
Fifty five prisons have now adopted the scheme and more than thirty others are considering taking part. The Shannon Trust, with 60 volunteer representatives and a team of retired prison Governors, is working to introduce the scheme nationwide.
For more information, visit www.toebytoe.co.uk or email info@toebytoe.co.uk
