Jumpstart

The Mustique Charitable Trust, in partnership with Fundacion Rassmuss, is proud to launch Jumpstart — a literacy initiative designed to transform early education in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Jumpstart ensures that every child has the opportunity to learn to read with comprehension by the end of Grade 2, giving them the best possible start in school and in life. The programme also provides support for older pupils who have struggled to learn to read. Rooted in neuroscience and evidence-based practice, the programme combines teacher training, classroom resources, and ongoing coaching to make reading success a reality for all.

Reading is the foundation of all learning. Yet many children in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, as in many parts of the world, struggle to master reading at an early age. Without strong literacy skills, children risk falling behind in every subject, limiting their future opportunities.

Research shows that the crucial window for developing reading comprehension is in the early years of schooling. By Grade 2, children need to be confident readers in order to thrive academically. Jumpstart is designed to meet this need directly, supporting schools and teachers at the most important stage of a child’s learning journey.

Jumpstart has been piloted and co-developed in St Vincent with a working party of literacy officers from the Curriculum Development Unit, Principals and classroom teachers.

Jumpstart provides a comprehensive package of support, tailored to local classrooms:

• Teacher Training & Coaching
  Educators receive in-depth training and ongoing coaching to build their confidence and strengthen classroom practice.

• Classroom Resources
  Schools are equipped with student workbooks, flashcards, and digital tools — all free of charge — to bring lessons to life and reinforce learning.

• Ongoing Support
  Teachers and schools benefit from continuous monitoring, feedback, and collaborative learning, ensuring long-term impact and sustainability.