‘Get Witham Reading’ returns for its 13th year!
Witham MP Priti Patel is excited to announce on World Book Day the return of ‘Get Witham Reading’ for its 13th year. Get Witham Reading is a landmark literacy programme across the Witham constituency, which covers schools in the Braintree and Maldon Districts and part of Colchester City. The initiative was launched in 2012 when across the constituency children’s literacy levels were below the national average. At the time national statistics highlighted that one in six pupils were leaving school without gaining the literacy skills expected of an 11 year old.
This year we will bring together hundreds of children, teachers, parents and community leaders from across the Witham constituency to engage in a range of interactive reading and literacy activities, all based on the theme of the 2024 Olympics, which are taking place in Paris, France. The ‘Get Witham Reading’ launch event will take place on Friday 5th July at Powers Hall Academy in Witham.
Priti said in anticipation of the event: “I am so proud that ‘Get Witham Reading’ is in its thirteenth year, I created this initiative when I first became the MP for Witham almost fourteen years ago to improve the literacy outcomes of our young people. Research into children’s reading ability is extensive and studies show that children who read more are more likely to get a good education, no matter their background.”
Schools interested in participating are encouraged to register their interest via [email protected]