Read all about it - schools can get involved in a new reading initiative.

Teachers and school leaders can register for the Reading Passport scheme, which is being launched by The Times & Star.

CN Group, which publishes the Times & Star, is joining forces with CWC International and the News Foundation to run the project during the autumn term.

The Reading Passport is aimed at primary schools, particularly pupils aged nine to 11 years old.

Participating pupils will receive a reading passport and a copy of their chosen CN Group title - The Whitehaven News, Times & Star, News & Star or The Cumberland News - every week for six weeks.

The children will complete the series of fun and educational activities that are packed into the pocket-sized passport.

The activities help youngsters develop a wide range of skills as they explore local people, places and events.

Pupils are also able to learn more about the world around them through current affairs covered by the media.

Deanne Shallcross, editor of the Times & Star, said: “News is available in many forms today, be it through the pages of a newspaper or website, or via broadcasts on TV or radio. It is also a way that we discover and learn what is going on around us in the world.

“Therefore we hope that our partnership with the News Foundation not only encourages young children to develop a love of reading, but that it also helps them develop a growing knowledge and understanding of the world around them locally, nationally and internationally.”

It will cost £2 per child to take part in the Reading Passport scheme. Schools can sign up until the end of the term - July 22.

For further details or to register your school, visit https://www.research.net/r/9HB5LJS