A group of volunteers who help nurture a love of learning in youngsters have been awarded three grants to run enrichment clubs in Chester and Ellesmere Port.

The team behind Passion for Learning, a community interest company based in Ellesmere Port, were delighted to receive successful fundraising bids from Children in Need, the Big Lottery Fund and the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cheshire.

The total funding of nearly £24,000 will enable Passion for Learning to run after-school enrichment clubs at Westminster Community Primary School, Wolverham Primary School, Brookside Primary School, Lache Primary School and Highfield Community Primary School.

Managing director of Passion for Learning Diane Clark explained that the organisation was born of the realisation that many children benefit from one-to-one time to play and learn with an interested, understanding adult, in order to develop the skills that they need to become effective readers and learners.

It operates across Cheshire working with 20 primary schools, through a network of around 60 volunteers.

Project manager Vivien Couche said: “We are truly delighted to have been awarded grants by Children in Need, Big Lottery and the PCC.

“The funding means that we can reach even more children through the after-school clubs than we already do with our core work within the school day.

“We know that it will make a real difference to the lives of the children we work with, which also benefits our wider communities.

“In the future we hope to expand our provision to even more schools and children.

“We are hugely grateful to everyone who has contributed towards the funding or who gives up their time as a volunteer to support us.”

Passion for Learning was one of the projects highlighted to the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall when the royal couple visited Lache in September.

In order to run the clubs, additional manpower is needed. Prospective volunteers, who will receive training and support, should be able to spare time once a week, between 3.15pm and 4.45pm.

Diane added: “Our volunteers are like a very big, close-knit family of passionate and determined people. Quite frankly, it’s just the most happy and satisfying volunteer role that I have ever come across.”

For more information about volunteering, email diane@passion-for-learning.com or visit Passion for Learning.