READ all about it – schools across Cumbria 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 News & Star .

CN Group, which publishes the News & 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 News & Star, The Cumberland News, Times & Star or Whitehaven News – every week for six weeks.

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

The activities will 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.

David Helliwell, editor of the News & 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.”

He added: “Reading can be informative, inspiring, educational, exciting and fun.

“It is also an important part of our education and learning and we’re happy to play a part in helping offer support in this way to local schools and their pupils.”

It will cost £2 per child to take part in the Reading Passport scheme. Schools across Carlisle, Eden, Allerdale and Copeland can sign up until the end of the term – July 22.

About 700 children across Barrow took part in a similar programme earlier this year.

Places for this autumn’s Reading Passport scheme are limited.

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