Ann Keane, Chief Inspector of Education and Training in Wales (Estyn), will be the guest speaker at this year’s World Book Day lecture, to be held on Tuesday, 28 February, at the Pierhead building, Cardiff Bay. During the course of her lecture, Ms Keane will touch on the historical background of inspection in Wales, draw on her own experience of the education process, and highlight the importance of literacy and reading in an ever-changing world.
The World Book Day lecture, an annual event organised by the Welsh Books Council, is of particular significance this year as the Books Council celebrates its 50th anniversary. The lecture will be attended by representatives from several major bodies and organisations, including universities, libraries, the education sector and corporate organisations.
Ms Keane, a Welsh-speaker from Carmarthen and a former teacher, said: “It is an honour to be invited to deliver this year’s World Book Day lecture. The ability to read is a vital skill, and we must ensure that all our children and young people have the ability to make the most of their education and to become valued members of society.
“Leading Estyn is a challenging and varied post. I value the opportunity it gives me to help learners in Wales to achieve excellence, and I hope to share some insights from inspection as well as from my own experience by means of the World Book Day lecture.”
Leighton Andrews AM, Minister for Education and Skills, said: “I am delighted to be chairing the 2012 World Book Day Lecture on the 50th anniversary of the Welsh Books Council.
“Nothing is more important than ensuring that all our young people reach the reading level that is appropriate for their age, and as Minister I am determined that we will raise literacy standards in our schools.
“World Book Day and its associated events highlight the importance of introducing children to the world of books and reading in all its forms. I welcome the active approach that the campaign is taking to inspire and encourage children to develop a love of reading.”
“We are delighted to have Ann Keane as our guest speaker in our anniversary year,” said Elwyn Jones, Chief Executive of the Welsh Books Council. “Over the years, the World Book Day campaign has worked in partnership with schools, libraries, the early-years sector and those responsible for learning in the workplace, in order to spread the joy of reading amongst children and adults of all ages.”
The World Book Day lecture is sponsored by Mr Roger Davies and family in memory of the late Mrs Catrin Puw Davies, in honour of her valuable contribution to the book industry in Wales.
World Book Day 2012 will be held on Thursday 1 March with many interesting events and activities taking place across Wales. To find out more please go to: http://bit.ly/worldbookday.
