A SCHEME to get more of the district's young people engaged in writing and poetry by providing literary role models is helping turn reluctant writers into budding bards.

The National Literacy Trust Hub in Bradford was set up to deal with the large numbers of young people in the district who leave school with poor skills in reading and writing.

The trust recognised that one issue facing the district was the high number of boys who had poor literacy skills, many of whom seemed reluctant to pick up a book. Several schools in the district were identified as having a “significant gender gap” when it came to reading.

One way the trust has tried to reverse this trend is by providing boys with male role models, such as sports stars and local writers, who enjoy reading, and by encouraging fathers and male family members to get more engaged in children’s reading.

A report to Bradford Council says schools that have been involved in the hub have seen noticeable improvement in pupils’ reading.

Among those involved is University Academy Keighley, where teachers have reported a rise in enthusiasm for poetry among pupils who are reluctant writers.

Hub manager Imran Hafeez said: “We’re thrilled by the positive response we’ve already had from schools for this programme which aims to make poetry accessible, fun and inclusive for pupils of all abilities.

"Introducing drawing, games, music and museums and galleries as prompts to spark ideas really helps children tap into their creativity and explore their identity through the written and spoken word."