Leeds pupils who are making headlines

Asquith Primary in Morley is among more than a dozen schools across the city taking part in the Make The News 2017 project.

Each child in participating classes gets a booklet filled with exciting activities designed to develop literacy skills.

They also receive copies of the YEP each week for six weeks – and the pupils from year six at Asquith Primary are relishing the chance to find out more about their city.

Natasha Harding, a teacher at the school, told the YEP: “We already watch Newsround every Monday so the children can get an idea of what’s going on in the world.

“They’re an enthusiastic group and they’ve been asking if they can try writing in the style of a newspaper, so this will fit in perfectly with that.

“It should help their reading skills as well, which of course is another good thing. We’re all really excited about it.”

As part of the project, youngsters will be asked to design their own eye-catching front pages for a competition that will see the winning school receiving a visit from a Leeds United player.

Speaking about the scheme, YEP editor Hannah Thaxter said: “This is a fantastic introduction to the world of news for young people. It shows how journalists work to find out what’s happening and pass on that information to other people.

“Youngsters seem to love the idea of being reporters and are so creative. I can’t wait to see what front page designs they come up with.” Make The News 2017 is being run by The NEWS Foundation with support coming from Leeds City Council and Child Friendly Leeds.