An initiative to encourage families to support their children’s reading has won the praise of celebrity historian David Starkey.

The KM Charity Team’s reading initiatives Buster’s Book Club and Reading Bug both create a series of inter-class and inter-school competitive challenges where top or most improved classes earn trophies or tickets to Kent leisure attractions such as Leeds Castle or Silver Blades ice rink.

The schemes have been so successful that this academic year more than 1.5 million minutes of reading have been achieved by children at the participating schools. Now, thanks to the support of Orbit, Golding and Circle Russet housing associations, selected schools are able to sign up for a substantially reduced rate and all schools can receive a discount.

David Starkey said: “The KM Charity Team’s home reading initiative has passed a remarkable milestone with 1.5 million minutes of reading achieved. The key to the scheme’s success is encouraging parents to support their children’s reading at home, but supported by inter-class and inter-school reading challenges. I would encourage head teachers to take a serious look at what this initiative has to offer.”

Mr Starkey has also announced that he will help champion the KM Charity Team's educational work in the county, following his involvement at the prestigious Kent Teacher of the Year Awards staged at Leeds Castle last month.

To find out more about Buster’s Book Club or Reading Bug visit the schools section of the website www.kmcharityteam.co.uk to download an information brochure and order form. To find out about the grants available email sdolby@thekmgroup.co.uk to check if your school is eligible.

The charity’s reading initiatives are supported by Kent County Council, Mini Babybel, Specsavers, 3Rs Teacher Recruitment Agency, Golding Homes, Orbit South and Circle Housing Russet. To find out more about sponsoring the literacy campaign call Mr Dolby on 07989 164 752.

Fact-file

• 40 primary schools currently use the KM Charity Team’s home reading initiative, Buster’s Book Club.
• Additional sponsors are needed to develop the initiative and enable extra schools to join.
• Schools wanting to find out more should visit Buster's Book Club.