VOLUNTEERS are being sought to help in a drive to raise standards of numeracy and literacy in schools throughout East Lancashire.

The Numeracy Volunteers Programme and the Reading Volunteers Programme have been set up by the East Lancashire Education Business Partnerships Servicing Unit.

Both schemes aim to support schools in raising levels of achievement in numeracy and literacy through volunteer support in the classroom.

Company employees or enthusiastic individuals who are willing to play a direct and active role are needed. They should be able to visit the school for one hour each week at an agreed day and time.

Training is provided beforehand and a visit is arranged to meet the teacher, before the volunteers are matched up with the children.

Nine schools are taking part across Blackburn and Darwen - Our Lady and St John RC High School, Blackburn; Queens Park High School, Blackburn; Darwen Moorland County High School; St James CE Primary School, Darwen; Sudell County Primary School, Darwen; Audley County Junior School, Blackburn; Intack County Primary School, Blackburn; St Mary and St Joseph's RC Primary School, Blackburn, and St Anthony's RC Primary School in Blackburn.

Cheryl Drinkwater of ELEBP said: "We are looking for people who are willing and enthusiastic with an interest in education. The scheme will obviously help raise children's achievements as well as helping them reach their full potential."

Anyone who would like to find out more about the scheme should contact Cheryl on 01254 389898.

Cheryl is pictured with Sudell Primary School headteacher Adrian Woods and pupils Victoria Howarth, Shaan Iqbal and Robyn Leonard, all aged six.

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