MP goes back to school as children learn to love literacy

10.05.00am GMT Mon 8th Feb 2010

Cambridge MP David Howarth went back to school today (Friday) to see how children are taking lessons to build a lifelong love of reading and writing.

Mr Howarth joined youngsters at St Philip's Church of England Primary School in Vinery Way who are being taught using National Literacy Trust programmes to boost their literacy skills.

His visit formed part of the trust's forthcoming Vote for Literacy campaign which asks the public to urge political parties, individual MPs and candidates to priorities literacy.

"It was very apparent that the children were thoroughly enjoying learning to read and write and having the opportunity to express their own ideas," said Mr Howarth.

"I firmly believe in the value of building our children's literacy skills. By creating an inviting and fun environment in which children can learn, we are encouraging them to have a lifelong love of reading and writing."

Jonathan Douglas, Director of the National Literacy Trust said: "Literacy is more important to local communities than ever before. The next government will need to rebuild our economy and to increase opportunities for all young people. Levels of literacy must improve for them to achieve this.

"We're delighted that David Howarth has chosen to see for himself how literacy is being successfully supported in one local school."