Bookstart studies

Studies of the Bookstart programme have highlighted its positive impact on reading habits within the home. Longitudinal studies demonstrate the language and literacy advantages acquired by children in their early years are maintained into full-time education.

Bookstart: Planting a seed for life

Fiona M. Collins, Cathy Svensson, Professor Pat Mahony: Roehampton University (January 2005)

An evaluation of the Bookstart programme between September 2003 and September 2004

Sainsbury's Bookstart Evaluation, NCRCL 2001

The National Centre for Research in Children's Literature, University of Surrey Roehampton 2001

Bookstart Research in Birmingham

Dr. Barrie Wade, Emeritus Professor, University of Birmingham, and Dr. Maggie Moore, Principal Lecturer, Newman College

Books for Babies project in Derbyshire

Elaine Millard, March 2002

Sheffield Babies Love Books

Margaret Hines and Professor Greg Brooks, University of Sheffield 2005

Demonstrates the significant impact of Bookstart on various literacy, language and listening skills at reception, age 4. Click here to download the study

Bookstart and shared reading

Catherine Hunn, University of Plymouth, May 2007

This study uses observations of parent and child shared reading experiences to examine the impact of Bookstart.

Hunn concludes that Bookstart contributes to literacy and language development as well as social and emotional maturity. Click here to download the study

An Appraisal of Bookstart in Sighthill

This evaluation was based on evidence collated through parent focus groups and interviews with professionals involved in the Bookstart in Sighthill programme. Adapted from An Appraisal of Bookstart in Sighthill, Edinburgh. Final Report to Bookstart Scotland by J. Spratt & K. Philip, October 2007.

Click here to download Bookstart in Sighthill final report

Click here to download An Appraisal of Bookstart in Sighthill