A year-long campaign aimed at boosting youngsters’ learning and skills is now under way.

A special launch event at City Hall in Bradford was attended by hundreds of children and adults from across the district.

Pupils from St Anne’s School, in Keighley, were among those who took part and spoke about their aspirations.

There were also sessions where children and adults worked together on various projects, ranging from creating craft items to reading.

The initial focus of the Bradford Council “b someone” campaign will be on how adults can help to develop youngsters’ educational skills by spending time with them and making learning fun.

Council leader Councillor Kris Hopkins, who opened the launch event, said: “Education and skills are the council’s top priorities and to assist us in making the progress we want to make, 2009 has been designated as the year of education in the district.

“Life for all of us can be hectic but by involving children in everyday learning activities — such as reading, counting, cooking and playing — and making them fun and interesting, youngsters can come on in leaps and bounds.

“Investing a little time can really pay off.”

Cllr Michael Kelly, executive member for services to children and young people, said: “The b someone campaign will encourage and celebrate learning and achievement in the Bradford district.

“Parents, grandparents and other adults can have a massive influence on a child’s life, especially when it comes to learning and developing skills.

“This can be achieved through involving your child in simple daily activities, such as counting red cars on the walk to school and cooking together.”

Kath Tunstall, the council’s strategic director for services to children and young people, said: “This is all about raising aspiration, setting our sights higher and believing in and supporting our children to do well.” A series of events will be held throughout the first half of this year to bring adults and children together.

Later, b someone will focus on promoting the benefits for young people of taking responsibility for their own learning and skills development supported by family, teachers, training providers and employers. For more information about events and how to get involved log on to bradford.gov.uk/bsomeone or phone 01274 437503.