Parents with poor reading and writing skills will be offered “family learning” classes before their children start school under a new government scheme. The government also wants local authorities to run information sessions for parents whose children are entering school, to help them understand the challenges children will face, and to encourage parents to get involved with their child’s education.

Education secretary Alan Johnson said “One of the most important things a parent can do to boost the educational chances of their children is to read to them. simple yes – but in a busy world it doesn’t happen often enough”. Mr Johnson also announced that next year would be “National Year of Reading”.