ReadingEagles and WritingFoxes

The initiative of the Haniel Foundation in North Rhine-Westphalia aims to support primary and secondary schools in Duisburg in sustainably promoting children with reading and spelling difficulties (dyslexia). Teaching and learning materials are based on the latest findings from dyslexia research and are implemented in school tandems, each connecting a primary school with a neighboring secondary institution. Students from Ruhr University Bochum accompany small groups of up to five children as coaches and trusted persons, employing proven methods such as the read-aloud tandem. The psychological component plays a central role: through close supervision and targeted diagnostics using the Münster Spelling Analysis, stigmatization is reduced and the participants’ self-esteem is strengthened.

Eligible for funding are educational institutions within the Duisburg city area that can provide a dyslexia diagnosis according to the MRA. As a grant program with ongoing application opportunities, the foundation supports the use of scientifically based concepts from grades 3 to 6. In the long term, several hundred children are expected to benefit across seven school tandems, aiming to inspire talents and unlock individual potential. With a focus on the Ruhr region, the networking of schools, universities, and social education partners is central to achieving genuine equal opportunities. The program demonstrates how a science-oriented and cooperative support structure can lead to encouraging reading and writing achievements as well as strengthened self-confidence.