THOUSANDS of primary school children across the district are receiving a free book.

The initiative, which follows a successful pilot last year, is part of a project to prepare the youngsters for the transition to secondary school.

Year-six pupils from almost every primary school in the area will each get their own copy of the award-winning Boy 87, by Ele Fountain – a novel about a child refugee forced to flee his home in search of safety.

Teachers will deliver cross-curricular work based around the text, giving pupils an understanding about the life of a 21st-century refugee.

Linda Wright – headteacher at Riddlesden St Mary’s Primary School – played a key role in helping to set-up the project, which was funded by Bradford Council.

“We felt it was important that as a district we continued to provide our year-six pupils with an engaging project to end their time at primary school whilst highlighting the very current global issue of protecting human rights for all – fundamental values that will serve them well as they move to secondary school and beyond,” she said.

“This year, project leaders have elevated the scheme of work to include all subject areas and provide a three-week unit that aims to be thought-provoking and inspiring. Boy 87 has provided the perfect platform for this.

“This shared learning experience will ensure that all our 8,500 year-six pupils go to their secondary school with a deep understanding of a topical and relevant issue in today’s society.

“The poignant story of Boy 87 will teach children not only the importance of British values, but also how they can make a difference in the world they live in.”

Councillor Imran Khan – Bradford Council’s portfolio holder for education, employment and skills – praised the initiative.

He said: “This is a superb project designed to prepare our year-six pupils for the move up to secondary school so they can flourish in the next stage of their schooling and reach their potential, which is what we want for all our young people.

“We are delighted to be involved for a second year and thank all the teachers for putting together this imaginative plan for our children. The subject matter of the book is especially pertinent to Bradford. We are a diverse city with a proud history of welcoming migrants.”