Portsmouth conference reaffirms the ‘importance of reading’ in schools

Education leaders in Portsmouth are reaffirming the importance of learning to read, raising standards in literacy across the city.

The Portsmouth Education Partnership, which brings together all education providers, partners, and stakeholders, held a teaching and learning conference for professionals in schools, colleges, and early years settings.

Through keynote speakers and workshops, the conference focused on inspiring professionals, supporting their continuing professional development, and extending networks.

Councillor Suzy Horton, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education at Portsmouth City Council said “I’m proud to reaffirm our commitment to supporting children and young people in the classroom with these important lifelong skills. Many of us take reading for granted but there are pupils who struggle with this task. We want to give them the enjoyment of reading and the benefits it will bring in all areas of their lives.

“The conference equips teachers and support staff with the knowledge they need to identify pupils who are experiencing difficulties, putting in place new strategies to support their learning.”

The Portsmouth Education Partnership has set out an education strategy with literacy as a top priority area. The conference is one way the partnership is already driving forward improvement by inviting members to learn more about the techniques and strategies to better support pupils.

Mike Stoneman, deputy director for children, families and education at Portsmouth City Council said “The teaching and learning conference is a really good example of different partners working together to drive up standards in literacy. Teachers, staff, and leaders in the city already do a fantastic job supporting pupils to learn to read but there is more to do.

“With the introduction of such a conference, professionals can extend their own knowledge and practice and come away inspired to support learners to read better. With reading making such a difference to economic and social wellbeing, it is a priority we cannot ignore.”

The conference is one way the council is working to improve literacy outcomes in the city. Other events including Bookfest, and the Summer Reading Challenge hosted at libraries in Portsmouth, extend literacy beyond the classroom, encouraging families to enjoy and embed this vital skill at home.

For more information on the Portsmouth Education Partnership, visit www.portsmoutheducationpartnership.co.uk