Pioneering Literacy Programme to Transform Early Childhood Education in Antigua

As the 2024/2025 academic year gets underway, the revolutionary literacy manual – Early Pages Programme (EPP) will form a key resource for teachers and students in early childhood institutions. Financed by a USD $36,000 grant from the Sandals Foundation.

The literacy development resources are designed for preschools across the Eastern Caribbean – empowering teachers and young learners aged 3-5 through a comprehensive manual that aligns with regional curriculum goals. 

An initiative by Hands Across the Sea, the EPP aims to elevate childhood literacy and prepare children for lifelong success.

Following a successful three-year pilot in Grenada and Nevis, the program is now being implemented in preschools throughout Antigua reaching hundreds of children, educators, and families across the islands.

“The Sandals Foundation’s partnership with Hands Across the Sea reflects our commitment to addressing the developmental needs of children at a crucial time in their growth,” said Heidi Clarke, Executive Director of the Sandals Foundation. “The Early Pages Programme takes a proactive and strategic approach to building the capacity of teachers and nurturing literacy skills within our students from the start. We believe it has the potential to change the trajectory of thousands of young lives in the Eastern Caribbean.”

“We are thrilled to see the Early Pages Programme expand to Antigua said Amanda Sherlip, Executive Director of Hands Across the Sea. “This initiative not only equips teachers with vital resources but also fosters a community-wide commitment to early literacy. We’ve seen the difference it makes, and we are excited for its potential to reshape early education across the region.”

The EPP focuses on three key pillars: integrating literacy into preschool environments, increasing parental engagement, and encouraging community participation.

The manual serves as a fundamental resource for preschool teachers and Early Childhood Units, while additional resources like preschool libraries, teacher training sessions, and ongoing mentorship provide comprehensive support.

The Sandals Foundation has been a longstanding partner of Hands Across the Sea, providing resources to school libraries, building the capacity of educators and providing essential literacy tools for communities in need since 2013. The Early Pages Programme is also being implemented in Grenada, Dominica and St. Kitts and the Nevis.