For the first time Barnet is launching a programme of summer schools this year.

Thanks to sponsorship by local businesses, 120 young people will be given the chance to improve their reading and writing skills.

The council says the scheme will offer a rich programme of language work coupled with sport and creative activities.

A 60-place summer school for ten-year-olds will be based at Barnet College during August 3 to August16. Pupils will be nominated by their primary schools to form part of this Whizzkids summer programme.

A further two 30-place Summer Literacy Schools will be aimed at primary pupils transferring to Ravenscroft and Whitefields secondary schools.

The three schemes will be staffed by trained teachers and classroom assistants, voluntary agencies, youth workers and parents, all working to provide a stimulating programme of activities.

The schemes are free to parents and children.

Council leader Alan Williams said the aim was to raise achievement in schools. He praised the partnership with business which included not only cash but other services and equipment that would help the summer schools.

The schools will cost £35,000 to run and the number of sponsors has now reached 20. Heading the list is fast food restaurant McDonald's, with other backers ranging from Arsenal FC to Wembley Stadium.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000.Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.